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What is the most important information I should know about magnesium sulfate?

Before taking magnesium sulfate, tell your doctor if you have any other medical conditions, allergies, or if you take other medicines or other herbal/health supplements. Magnesium sulfate may not be recommended in some situations.

Do not use magnesium sulfate as a laxative if you have stomach (abdominal) pain, nausea, or vomiting, unless directed by a doctor. If you notice a sudden change in bowel habits that persists over a period of 2 weeks, consult your healthcare provider before using a laxative. Magnesium sulfate should not be used for longer than one week, unless otherwise directed by your healthcare provider. Rectal bleeding or failure to have a bowel movement after use of a laxative may indicate a more serious condition; stop using magnesium sulfate and contact your healthcare provider.

What is magnesium sulfate?

Magnesium is a naturally occurring mineral. Magnesium is important for many systems in the body especially the muscles and nerves. Magnesium sulfate also increases water in the intestines, which may induce defecation.

Magnesium hydroxide is used as a laxative to relieve occasional constipation (irregularity).

Magnesium sulfate may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking magnesium sulfate?

Do not take magnesium sulfate without first talking to your doctor if you have kidney disease. Do not use magnesium sulfate as a laxative if you have stomach (abdominal) pain, nausea, or vomiting, unless directed by a doctor. If you notice a sudden change in bowel habits that persists over a period of 2 weeks, consult your healthcare provider before using a laxative. Magnesium sulfate should not be used for longer than one week, unless otherwise directed by your healthcare provider. Rectal bleeding or failure to have a bowel movement after use of a laxative may indicate a more serious condition; stop using magnesium sulfate and contact your healthcare provider.

Before taking magnesium sulfate, tell your doctor if you have any other medical conditions, allergies, or if you take other medicines or other herbal/health supplements. Magnesium sulfate may not be recommended in some situations.

It is not known whether magnesium sulfate will be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not take magnesium sulfate without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy. It is not known whether magnesium sulfate will be harmful to an nursing baby. Do not take magnesium sulfate without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take magnesium sulfate?

Take magnesium sulfate exactly as directed by your doctor or as directed on the package. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.

Magnesium sulfate may be used orally or as a rectal enema. Follow your doctor's instructions or the directions on the package.

Do not use magnesium sulfate as a laxative if you have stomach (abdominal) pain, nausea, or vomiting, unless directed by a doctor. If you notice a sudden change in bowel habits that persists over a period of 2 weeks, consult your healthcare provider before using a laxative. Magnesium sulfate should not be used for longer than one week, unless otherwise directed by your healthcare provider. Rectal bleeding or failure to have a bowel movement after use of a laxative may indicate a more serious condition; stop using magnesium sulfate and contact your healthcare provider. Do not take more magnesium sulfate than is directed. Store magnesium sulfate at room temperature away from moisture and heat.