Magnesium Deficiency (Hypomagnesemia): Drug Therapy

Therapeutic target

Therapy recommendations

  • In mild forms of magnesium deficiency, a magnesium-rich diet (see “Further therapy” below) or the administration of magnesium supplements is sufficient
  • Substitution therapy
    • Oral magnesium application (dosage: 240-480 mg; 10-20 mmol/l; 2-3 months).
    • Intravenous therapy (dosage: 25 mmol magnesium sulfate in 1,000 ml 5% glucose infusion; 20-40 mmol/l in 24 h).

Contraindications of magnesium therapy.

Oral administration

  • Severe renal insufficiency (adjust dosage if renal function is impaired).

Parenteral administration

Side effects of magnesium therapy

  • Soft stools (usually passager) [with oral administration].
  • Bradycardias
  • Excitation conduction disorders in the region of the sinus and AV node.
  • Blood pressure drop
  • Sweat breakout
  • Nausea and vomiting