Mineral
Magnesium Citrate (Constipation)
Also known as: Osmotic laxative
A
Evidence
Osmotic laxative form of magnesium that draws water into the intestines for gentle relief.
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 checkerMedical disclaimer. This page is educational and does not replace advice from a qualified healthcare provider.