The headline “NEVER Use Magnesium If You Are Taking Any of the Following Medications” is overly absolute. Magnesium supplements are not unsafe for everyone, but they can interact with certain medications by reducing how well they are absorbed or by increasing the risk of side effects.
Here are some important medication interactions:
- Certain antibiotics
- Magnesium can reduce the absorption of some antibiotics, making them less effective.
- It is often recommended to separate the doses by a few hours.
- Thyroid hormone replacement
- Levothyroxine can bind to magnesium, reducing its absorption.
- Take them several hours apart if advised by your healthcare provider.
- Osteoporosis medications
- Medicines called bisphosphonates may not be absorbed properly if taken with magnesium supplements.
- Certain HIV medications
- Some antiviral medicines interact with magnesium-containing products and should be separated in time.
- Some heart medications
- Magnesium may affect certain medications used for heart rhythm or blood pressure, depending on the specific drug.
- Diuretics (“water pills”)
- Some diuretics lower magnesium levels, while others can increase magnesium retention.
Who should be especially careful?
People with Chronic kidney disease may not be able to remove excess magnesium effectively. High magnesium levels can be dangerous in severe kidney impairment.
Before taking magnesium supplements
- Tell your healthcare provider about all medications and supplements you take.
- Follow the recommended dose.
- If you’re taking prescription medicines, ask whether you should separate the timing of magnesium and your medication.
Do not stop a prescribed medication because of an online warning. If you’re considering magnesium supplements, a healthcare professional or pharmacist can help determine whether they’re appropriate and how to take them safely.
