Before you begin using a medication, be sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions or Allergies you may have, any medications you are taking, whether you are pregnant or breast-feeding, and any other significant facts about your health. These factors may affect how you should use Citrodan (Magnesium-citrate).
Dehydration: You should not use osmotic laxatives frequently or for extended periods of time as it can result in dehydration, especially if they are not taken with sufficient amounts of fluids.
Frequent or prolonged use: Use Citrodan (Magnesium-citrate) only when you need it or as recommended by your doctor. Avoid using Citrodan (Magnesium-citrate) repeatedly at short intervals, and do not use it for more than 1 week unless directed by your doctor. Frequent and long-term use of Citrodan (Magnesium-citrate) can lead to your body depending on this medication for bowel movements. Taking Citrodan (Magnesium-citrate) too often can also lead to diarrhea, as well as problems with the electrolyte and fluid levels in your body.
Gastrointestinal: You should not use magnesium citrate if you are experiencing acute abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or other symptoms of Appendicitis or undiagnosed abdominal pain. It should also not be used if you have ileostomies or colostomies.
Heart block: Hypermagnesemia (high levels of magnesium in the body) can cause heart block. If you have heart block, do not take Citrodan (Magnesium-citrate). Talk to your doctor or pharmacist for advice.
Low sodium diet or kidney problems: If you are on a low sodium diet or have severely reduced kidney function, your doctor should closely monitor your magnesium levels while you are taking magnesium citrate, as you may be at an increased risk for hypermagnesemia.
Neuromuscular disease: If you have Myasthenia Gravis or other neuromuscular diseases, discuss with your doctor how Citrodan (Magnesium-citrate) may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of this medication, and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Pregnancy: Occasional use of magnesium citrate as a laxative is considered safe in pregnancy. If you have any questions, talk to your doctor.
Breast-feeding: Magnesium citrate is considered safe in breast-feeding.
Children: Magnesium citrate should only be used in children on the advice of a doctor.
Seniors: As kidney function declines with age, your doctor should closely monitor your magnesium levels while you are taking magnesium citrate, as you may be at an increased risk for hypermagnesemia.