Magnesium Oxide Side Effects

Magnesium oxide is used to treat many different medical conditions. It is commonly used as an antacid to treat indigestion, sour stomach and heartburn. It is also used as a short-term laxative. It is commonly taken as a nutritional supplement for diets with magnesium deficiencies because magnesium is vital for the healthy functioning of the body. There are, however, some side effects associated with magnesium oxide.

Diarrhea

• The most common side effect associated with magnesium oxide is diarrhea. This is generally mild and is not considered cause for alarm. It usually subsides very quickly. If diarrhea lingers or becomes particularly severe, one should seek medical attention.

Severe Side Effects

• The more serious side effects of magnesium oxide include signs of allergic reaction such as swelling of the face, tongue, lips or mouth; tightness of the chest; rash; difficulty breathing; and hives. Dark stool, nausea, dark vomit and slow reactions are also serious. One who experiences any of these side effect should seek immediate medical attention.

Hypocalcemia

• Hypocalcemia is a possible side effect of magnesium oxide. This is a medical condition caused by a decrease in serum calcium levels within the blood. This is a severe side effect associated with magnesium oxide that requires medical attention.

Hypotension

• Hypotension is the clinical term for unusually low blood pressure. This is possible side effect of magnesium oxide. Symptoms of hypotension include the inability to concentrate, blurry vision, dizziness, exhaustion, depression, fainting, shallow and fast breathing, excessive thirst and clammy, cold skin. This is a severe side effect that requires medical attention.

Hypermagnesemia

• Hypermagnesemia is a toxicity side effect that can result from taking magnesium oxide. This involves the electrolytes being altered due to unusually high levels of magnesium in the blood. Most people can endure mild instances of hypermagnesemia, but more serious cases can have a negative effect on both the cardiovascular and nervous systems and require medical attention.