Mineral
Magnesium Citrate (Constipation)
Also known as: Osmotic laxative
Osmotic laxative form of magnesium that draws water into the intestines for gentle relief.
Last reviewed June 2026 · Evidence graded from peer-reviewed research, not editorial opinion. Educational only — not medical advice.
Primary uses
- Constipation
- Bowel prep
- Magnesium supplementation
How it works
- Draws water into intestines
- Stimulates bowel movement
- Also provides magnesium
- Gentle mechanism
Dosage
- Typical range
- 200-400mg magnesium for regular use, higher for acute constipation
- Timing
- Bedtime or morning
- With food
- Either way
- Duration
- Regular use okay at moderate doses
- Special populations
- Constipation, also getting magnesium benefit
Forms
- Powder
- Capsules
- Liquid
Safety
Common side effects
- Loose stools
- Cramping
- Diarrhea if too much
Contraindications
- Kidney disease (accumulates)
- Bowel obstruction
Evidence notes
Well-established osmotic laxative
Grade A: Multiple well-designed human trials support the main claims.
Related in Mineral
Check a full stack
Formulate's free interaction checker lets you paste in any combination of supplements and medications at once — every pairing flags severity, timing, and cited evidence.
Open the checkerWhere does Magnesium Citrate (Constipation) fit in your stack?
Answer two questions and get a stack graded on research — every ingredient scored on the evidence behind it, not the marketing.
Build my stack2 questions · free · no account needed to start
Also on iPhone — get the free app
Evidence-based supplement guides, no spam
We send a short digest when new guides drop — nothing else. No affiliate pushes, no sponsored content, unsubscribe anytime.
Medical disclaimer. This page is educational and does not replace advice from a qualified healthcare provider. Individual needs and risks vary — consult a professional before starting, stopping, or combining supplements, especially if you are pregnant or nursing, taking medication, or managing a health condition.