Magnesium: When to Take It & How to Track It
Also called: Magnesium citrate, Magnesium glycinate, Magnesium oxide
By MagdaLast updated
What is Magnesium?
Magnesium is a mineral involved in hundreds of processes in the body, including muscle and nerve function, blood sugar control, blood pressure and making protein, bone and DNA. It is found in leafy greens, nuts, seeds, legumes and whole grains. Supplements come in many forms, such as magnesium citrate, glycinate, oxide and chloride, and magnesium is also an ingredient in some laxatives and antacids. The key timing issue with magnesium is not the time of day but the gap between it and certain medicines, which is easy to lose track of without a fixed schedule.
When to take Magnesium: general timing information
Bisphosphonates for osteoporosis may not be absorbed well if taken too close to magnesium. The NIH suggests keeping them at least 2 hours apart. [2]
Tetracycline and quinolone antibiotics can be poorly absorbed near magnesium. The NIH suggests taking them at least 2 hours before, or 4 to 6 hours after, a magnesium supplement. [2]
Some diuretics increase magnesium loss and others reduce it, and long-term use of acid reflux medicines (proton pump inhibitors) can lower magnesium levels. [1]
High intakes of magnesium from supplements or medicines can cause diarrhea, nausea and stomach cramps. [1]
How to set a Magnesium reminder in Pillzy
Tap + in Pillzy and add the exact form, such as "Magnesium glycinate", with the dose from your label.
Choose the frequency and time your doctor or label gives, such as Once daily in the evening.
If you take an antibiotic or a bisphosphonate, set those reminders at least the gap your pharmacist recommends away from magnesium.
Add a note about any stomach side effects so you can spot a pattern.
Mark each dose taken and review your history before appointments.
Turn on a refill reminder with the number of tablets you have, so Pillzy alerts you before you run out.
Frequently asked questions
Is magnesium better at night or in the morning?
The NIH fact sheets do not set a best time of day for magnesium. The more important rule is keeping it apart from antibiotics and osteoporosis medicines, so choose a time that leaves room for those gaps.
Why does magnesium give me diarrhea?
The NIH notes that high intakes from supplements or medicines can cause diarrhea, nausea and cramping. Some forms are also used as laxatives, so ask a pharmacist if you get this side effect.