Citrate of Magnesia

Generic name: magnesium citrate [ mag-NEE-zee-um-SI-trate ]
Brand names: Citrate of Magnesia, Citroma Cherry, Citroma Lemon, ColonX, OneLAX Magnesium Citrate, Citroma
Drug class: Laxatives

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Jan 8, 2024. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is Citrate of Magnesia?

Citrate of Magnesia is used as a supplement to maintain adequate magnesium in the body.

Citrate of Magnesia is also used as a laxative to treat occasional constipation.

Citrate of Magnesia may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Citrate of Magnesia side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives, difficult breathing, swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Citrate of Magnesia may cause serious side effects. Stop using Citrate of Magnesia and call your doctor at once if you have:

• no bowel movement within 6 hours after taking the medicine;

• pain with bowel movements, rectal bleeding;

• watery diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, severe stomach pain;

• painful or difficult urination;

• flushing (warmth, redness, or tingly feeling);

• a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out;

• weak or shallow breathing, slow heartbeats; or

• muscle weakness, increased thirst.

Common side effects of Citrate of Magnesia may include:

• loose stools, diarrhea, stomach cramps;

• upset stomach;

• dizziness; or

• increased sweating.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Warnings

Follow all directions on the label and package. Use exactly as directed.

Before taking this medicine

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if Citrate of Magnesia is safe to use if you have or have ever had:

• a sudden change in bowel habits that has lasted longer than 2 weeks;

• stomach pain, nausea, vomiting;

• if you are on a low-magnesium or low-sodium diet; or

• kidney disease.

Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

How should I take Citrate of Magnesia?

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.

Take with a full glass of water.

Shake the liquid medicine. Measure a dose with the supplied measuring device (not a kitchen spoon).

Citrate of Magnesia should produce a bowel movement within 30 minutes to 6 hours after you take the medicine.

Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 7 days of treatment, or if the medicine produces no results. Not having a bowel movement after using a laxative may be a sign of a condition more serious than occasional constipation.

Store at cool room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Related/similar drugs

MiraLAX, docusate, lactulose, bisacodyl, Colace, senna

What happens if I miss a dose?

Citrate of Magnesia is used when needed. If you are on a dosing schedule, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not use two doses at one time.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

What should I avoid while taking Citrate of Magnesia?

Avoid taking any other medicines within 2 hours before or 2 hours after you take Citrate of Magnesia. Laxatives can make it harder for your body to absorb other medicines you take by mouth.

What other drugs will affect Citrate of Magnesia?

Other drugs may affect Citrate of Magnesia, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all other medicines you use.

Frequently asked questions

• What is the maximum dosage for Colace stool softener at one time?

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

Copyright 1996-2024 Cerner Multum, Inc. Version: 4.02.