Magnesium Chloride

Cardiac Therapy · Vasodilator

Indications

Use for correction or prevention of hypomagnesaemia.

Dosage

IV in TPN: Children: 2-10 mEq/day. The usual recommended paediatric maintenance intake of magnesium ranges from 0.2-0.6 mEq/kg/day. The dose of magnesium may also be based on the caloric intake; on that basis, 3-10 mEq/day of magnesium are needed; max maintenance dose: 8-16 mEq/day. Adults: 8-24 mEq/day.

Risk Factor (Pregnancy/Lactation)

Pregnancy: Positive evidence of risk: Use only when no safer alternative exists for a serious problem.

Advice to Patient

Chew magnesium chewable tablets thoroughly before swallowing then drink a full glass of water. Tablets have a chalky taste. Inform prescriber and avoid using magnesium-containing laxative if there is abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting. Magnesium supplements used to replace electrolytes can cause diarrhoea. Boiled milk, buttermilk or yoghurt may help in reducing or preventing diarrhoea.

Pharmacokinetics

Onset: Anticonvulsant action: IV: Immediate. IM: 1 hr. Duration: Anticonvulsant action: IV: 30 mins. IM: 3-4 hrs. Absorption: Inversely proportional to amount ingested (15-36% at high doses and 40-60% at controlled dietary levels). Metabolism: Renal. Enterohepatic. Excretion: Urine (as Mg). Unabsorbed Mg in excreted in faeces.

Compiled by Healify Pharmacy from published drug references. How we compile it →

Always consult a pharmacist or doctor.