Magnesium oxide

Magnesium oxide is taken as a supplement to keep magnesium levels in the body normal.

Magnesium oxide can also help with indigestion, upset stomach, or be used as a laxative to ease occasional constipation.

Magnesium oxide may also be used for reasons not mentioned in this medication guide.

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.

Magnesium oxide may be taken with food if it upsets your stomach.

Stop using magnesium oxide 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.

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

You should not take magnesium oxide if you are allergic to it.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if magnesium oxide is safe to use if you have or have ever had:

• stomach pain, nausea, vomiting;
• a sudden change in bowel habits that has lasted longer than 2 weeks;
• if you are on a low-magnesium diet; or
• 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.

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

Stop using magnesium oxide and call your doctor right away if you:

• have rectal bleeding; or
• do not have a bowel movement after using magnesium oxide as a laxative.

Common side effects of magnesium oxide may include:

• nausea, vomiting;
• diarrhea; or
• stomach pain, loss of appetite.

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

Magnesium oxide is used as needed. If you have a dosing schedule and miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not take two doses at the same time.

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

Symptoms of an overdose may include nausea, vomiting, weakness, breathing problems, slow reflexes, extreme drowsiness, loss of consciousness, and feeling dizzy or light-headed.

Do not take 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.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using magnesium oxide with any other medicines, especially:

• sevelamer;
• an antibiotic; or
• a diuretic or "water pill".

This list is not complete. Other drugs may affect magnesium oxide, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible drug interactions are listed here.