Effect of Magnesium Oxide Supplementation on Nocturnal Leg Cramps: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Roguin Maor N, Alperin M, Shturman E, Khairaldeen H, Friedman M, Karkabi K, et al.
Published in JAMA Intern Med, Vol. 177 (5), pp. 617-623
Methodology
Double-blind, placebo-controlled RCT in community-dwelling adults (mean age 64.9) with 4 or more documented night cramps in a 2-week screening phase; magnesium oxide or placebo at bedtime for 4 weeks.
Key Findings
Cramps fell by 3.41 a week on magnesium oxide and 3.03 on placebo; the between-group difference was not significant (P = .67). No differences in severity, duration, quality of life or sleep.
Conclusions
Oral magnesium oxide was not superior to placebo for nocturnal leg cramps in older adults; the fall in both groups is probably a placebo effect.
Limitations
Short (4 weeks); stopped early per MeSH tags; the abstract does not state the magnesium dose.
Supplements Studied
Oral magnesium oxide was not superior to placebo for older adults experiencing NLC
Related Health Concerns
Study Details
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