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.

 

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Health Benefits

Magnesium Oxide supports relief from heartburn and indigestion; serves as an osmotic laxative to relieve constipation; provides supplemental magnesium for deficiency.

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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.

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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.

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Who Should Use It?

Individuals with mild acid reflux, indigestion, or occasional constipation; those requiring high-dose elemental magnesium supplementation under supervision.

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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.

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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.

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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