Magnesium aspartate

Magnesium aspartate

Magnesium aspartate is a mineral supplement used to prevent and treat low amounts of magnesium in the blood. Magnesium is very important for the normal functioning of cells, nerves, muscles, bones, and the heart. Usually, a well-balanced diet provides normal blood levels of magnesium. However, certain situations cause your body to lose magnesium faster than you can replace it from your diet. These situations include treatment with "water pills" (diuretics such as furosemide, hydrochlorothiazide), a poor diet, alcoholism, or other medical conditions (e.g., severe diarrhea/vomiting, stomach/intestinal absorption problems, poorly controlled diabetes).

Chemical Composition

Magnesium aspartate is a chelated form of magnesium that is attached to aspartic acid, an amino acid. This form of magnesium is highly absorbable by the body. The chemical formula for magnesium aspartate is C8H12MgN2O8.

Uses

Magnesium aspartate is used to treat or prevent magnesium deficiency. The body requires magnesium for many processes including cell division, protein synthesis, nerve impulse conduction, and muscle contraction. It may also be used to treat symptoms of magnesium deficiency such as muscle cramps, weakness, and irritability. It can also be used as a supplement in people with diseases of the heart and blood vessels.

Side Effects

Like all medicines, magnesium aspartate can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. Some common side effects include stomach upset, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Rarely, more serious side effects can occur including allergic reactions, irregular heartbeat, mental/mood changes, and other symptoms of high magnesium levels in the blood.

Precautions

Before taking magnesium aspartate, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Also, before using this product, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: kidney disease, heart disease.

Interactions

Magnesium aspartate can interact with certain medications such as antibiotics, bisphosphonates, and medications for high blood pressure. It is important to tell your doctor about all the medications you are currently taking before starting magnesium aspartate.

See Also

• Magnesium
• Aspartic acid
• Mineral supplement
• Magnesium deficiency