Phillips' Cramp-free
Generic name: magnesium oxide [ mag-NEE-zee-um-OX-ide ]
Other brand names of magnesium oxide include Phillips' Cramp-free, Uro-Mag, MagGel
Drug class: Minerals and electrolytes
What is Phillips' Cramp-free?
Phillips' Cramp-free is used as a supplement to maintain adequate magnesium in the body.
Phillips' Cramp-free is also used to treat indigestion, upset stomach, or as a laxative to relieve occasional constipation.
Phillips' Cramp-free may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Phillips' Cramp-free 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.
Stop using Phillips' Cramp-free and call your doctor at once if you:
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have rectal bleeding; or
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do not have a bowel movement after using Phillips' Cramp-free as a laxative.
Common side effects of Phillips' Cramp-free may include:
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.
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Warnings
Follow all directions on the label and package. Use exactly as directed.
Before taking this medicine
You should not take Phillips' Cramp-free if you are allergic to it.
Ask a doctor or pharmacist if Phillips' Cramp-free is safe to use if you have or have ever had:
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stomach pain, nausea, vomiting;
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a sudden change in bowel habits that has lasted longer than 2 weeks;
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if you are on a low-magnesium diet; or
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kidney disease.
Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Do not give this medicine to a child without medical advice.
How should I take Phillips' Cramp-free?
Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.
Take this medicine with a full glass of water.
When using this medicine as a laxative, it may be best to take your dose at bedtime.
Phillips' Cramp-free may be taken with food if it upsets your stomach.
Stop using Phillips' Cramp-free and call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 7 days of treatment, or if they get worse.
Store at cool room temperature away from moisture and heat.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Phillips' Cramp-free 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.
Overdose symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, weakness, breathing problems, slow reflexes, extreme drowsiness, loss of consciousness, and feeling dizzy or light-headed.
What should I avoid while taking Phillips' Cramp-free?
Avoid taking other medications at the same time you use an antacid. Some antacids can make it harder for your body to absorb other medicines you take by mouth.
What other drugs will affect Phillips' Cramp-free?
Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using Phillips' Cramp-free with any other medicines, especially:
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an antibiotic; or
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a diuretic or "water pill".
This list is not complete. Other drugs may affect Phillips' Cramp-free, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible drug interactions are listed here.
Popular FAQ
When is the best time to take magnesium, morning or night?
The best time of day to take magnesium depends on your health goals and individual needs. While timing can enhance specific benefits, maintaining a consistent routine is more important for stable magnesium levels in the body. Many studies show the full benefits of magnesium occur after long-term use. Continue reading
Should I take magnesium with or without food?
It is generally recommended to take magnesium with food to help lower the chances for an upset stomach and increase the absorption of the mineral into your body. If you take magnesium on an empty stomach, you increase the risk for common stomach side effects like diarrhea, nausea and abdominal cramping. Continue reading
Does magnesium help with restless leg syndrome (RLS)?
The evidence regarding magnesium's effectiveness for restless leg syndrome presents a complex picture. While some research suggests a beneficial effect, particularly for individuals with magnesium deficiency, other studies find no significant correlation between magnesium levels and RLS severity. Continue reading
Can magnesium help with menopause symptoms?
A placebo-controlled study showed that 800 mg to 1,200 mg per day of magnesium oxide did not have a significant effect in reducing hot flash symptoms in menopausal women with a history of breast cancer. A smaller study did show a positive effect with 400 mg to 800 mg, but did not include a placebo (control) group. Further research is needed in a more generalized population.
Continue readingDoes magnesium help with headaches and migraines?
The current evidence supports a role for magnesium in both the prevention and treatment of headache disorders, particularly migraines. Multiple clinical trials and meta-analyses demonstrate that magnesium supplementation can reduce the frequency and intensity of migraine attacks, while intravenous magnesium shows promise for acute treatment. Continue reading
Does magnesium help with weight loss?
While magnesium alone will not lead to significant weight loss, its ability to regulate blood sugar levels, reduce inflammation, improve gut health, boost metabolism, and enhance sleep quality makes it a valuable component of a holistic approach to weight management. Individuals with magnesium deficiencies or related conditions may benefit most from supplementation or dietary adjustments. Continue reading
More about Phillips' Cramp-free (magnesium oxide)
- Check interactions
- Compare alternatives
- Side effects
- Dosage information
- During pregnancy
- Drug class: minerals and electrolytes
- Breastfeeding
- En español
Patient resources
Other brands
Mag-Oxide, Mag-200, MagGel, Uro-Mag
Related treatment guides
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.
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