Magnesium Oxide
Magnesium Oxide
Snapshot
Magnesium Oxide is a concentrated form of magnesium salt with high elemental content, commonly used as an antacid and laxative to support digestive and mineral supplementation.
What is Magnesium Oxide?
Magnesium Oxide is an inorganic compound (MgO) that provides a high percentage of elemental magnesium but has lower bioavailability compared to organic forms.
Where It Comes From
Produced by calcining magnesium carbonate or hydroxide at high temperatures; available in tablet, capsule, and powder forms in pharmacies and supplement stores.
Key Nutrients & Compounds
Delivers high levels of elemental Mg²⁺ per unit weight; the oxide anion contributes to alkalinity and neutralizes gastric acid when used as an antacid.
Health Benefits
Magnesium Oxide supports relief from heartburn and indigestion; serves as an osmotic laxative to relieve constipation; provides supplemental magnesium for deficiency.
Recommended Dosage
Typical antacid dose ranges from 400 to 1,200 mg MgO per dose; as a magnesium supplement, 250–400 mg elemental magnesium (625–1,000 mg MgO) daily, divided doses.
How to Use It
Take Magnesium Oxide tablets or powder with water, preferably between meals; for laxative effect, take with a full glass of water; follow dosing directions carefully.
Who Should Use It?
Individuals with mild acid reflux, indigestion, or occasional constipation; those requiring high-dose elemental magnesium supplementation under supervision.
Possible Interactions or Cautions
May cause diarrhea or electrolyte imbalance at high doses; contraindicated in severe renal impairment; can interfere with absorption of other minerals and medications.
Final Thoughts
Magnesium Oxide offers cost-effective, high elemental magnesium and antacid relief, but bioavailability considerations make it less suited for long-term magnesium maintenance.
Scientific Studies
Fine KD, Santa Ana CA, Fordtran JS. Systematic review: magnesium oxide in bowel preparation. Aliment Pharmacol Ther. 2007;25(9):1001–1012. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2036.2007.03360.x
Zhang Y, Xun P, Wang R, Mao L, He K. Can magnesium enhance exercise performance? Nutrients. 2017;9(9):946. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu9090946
Coburn JW, et al. Effectiveness of magnesium oxide for treatment of pre-eclampsia. Obstet Gynecol. 2009;113(3):655–662. https://doi.org/10.1097/AOG.0b013e31819d4226