Outcome
    Limited

    Magnesium for Pain Relief

    Magnesium helps cramping and some neuropathic pain but does little for general inflammatory pain.

    Overview

    Magnesium helps cramping and some neuropathic pain but does little for general inflammatory pain.

    Verdict

    Mixed evidence

    How It Works

    Magnesium blocks NMDA receptors involved in central sensitisation and wind-up pain, and supports normal muscle relaxation.

    Dosing & Protocol

    Typical dose

    Recommended dose
    200-400mg elemental magnesium daily (glycinate or citrate)
    Expected timeframe
    4-8 weeks

    Protocol

    form
    Magnesium glycinate or citrate
    duration
    6-8 weeks to judge
    co factor
    Take with food. Evidence is mixed, and the split between routes of administration explains why. Intravenous magnesium has reasonable evidence as a perioperative analgesic adjunct, reducing opioid requirements after surgery, and has shown benefit in some neuropathic and complex regional pain syndrome trials - all consistent with NMDA receptor blockade reducing central sensitisation. Oral magnesium is a different proposition: absorption is limited, plasma concentrations are far lower, and the dose is capped by diarrhoea. Oral trials in chronic pain conditions are small and inconsistent, with the clearest signals in migraine prophylaxis, menstrual pain and fibromyalgia rather than pain in general, and better results in people with low magnesium status.
    titration
    Up to 400 mg/day in divided doses; reduce if stools loosen
    starting dose
    200 mg elemental magnesium daily with food

    Evidence

    What the studies say

    Small trials show benefit in neuropathic pain, migraine and post-operative opioid sparing. Evidence in chronic musculoskeletal pain is inconsistent. Deficiency correction accounts for much of the observed benefit.

    No studies are yet linked to both Magnesium and Pain Relief.

    Safety

    Caveats

    Loose stools with citrate and oxide forms. Lower the dose in kidney impairment.

    Less likely to help if

    Magnesium-replete people, and anyone with pain from a structural or inflammatory cause needing specific treatment.

    Medical Disclaimer

    The information provided on this website is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or before starting any supplement regimen.

    Individual results may vary. The statements on this website have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Products and information are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.