We explored how intravenous magnesium sulfate (IVMg) can help children facing severe asthma attacks. The study included 49 pediatric patients who were treated with IVMg after presenting to the emergency department. Some received a placebo, while others were given either 50 or 75 mg/kg of magnesium.
Our analysis showed that higher magnesium levels in the blood were linked to improvements in asthma symptoms, specifically reductions in the Pediatric Respiratory Assessment Measure scores. This suggests that IVMg could be an effective treatment for moderate to severe asthma exacerbations in children.
Interestingly, we noticed that only two out of 31 participants experienced hypotension, showcasing the safety of IVMg, as severe side effects are rare. Moreover, we proposed that a total serum magnesium area under the concentration-time curve greater than 63.1 mg h/L might be a useful target for effective dosing. Further research in larger studies is necessary to confirm these findings, but they indicate that IVMg could serve as a beneficial adjunct treatment for young patients suffering from asthma attacks.
Read More
8
Magnesium sulfate improves asthma outcomes
[Efficacy and safety of magnesium sulfate in the treatment of adult patients with acute severe asthma: a Meta-analysis].
We explored the effectiveness and safety of magnesium sulfate as a treatment for acute severe asthma in adults through a thorough analysis of randomized controlled trials. The studies compared the outcomes of patients receiving conventional asthma treatments with those given additional intravenous magnesium sulfate.
Our findings indicated that magnesium sulfate significantly enhances the total response rate and improves lung function, specifically measured by peak expiratory flow and forced expiratory volume. Importantly, we observed no increase in adverse reactions among those treated with magnesium sulfate.
However, we must emphasize that the overall number and quality of studies included in our analysis were limited. This suggests a need for further high-quality research to confirm these benefits in the future.
Read More
7
Magnesium shows limited asthma benefit
Can Intravenous Caffeine Citrate Be Used for Severe Asthma Exacerbation in Children? A Retrospective Comparative Study.
We conducted a retrospective cohort study to examine how magnesium sulfate impacts children suffering from severe asthma exacerbations that do not respond to standard treatments like beta2-agonists and steroids. Our research involved a group of young patients who had similar demographic backgrounds and initial health conditions, ensuring a fair evaluation of magnesium's effectiveness compared to intravenous caffeine citrate.
After treatment, we observed that the groups receiving either magnesium or caffeine showed no significant differences in key outcomes. The Paediatric Respiratory Assessment Measure (PRAM) scores, which help assess the severity of asthma symptoms, did not improve markedly between the two. Additionally, there was no notable difference in the length of the pediatric intensive care unit stay or duration of oxygen therapy needed for each group.
While magnesium sulfate has been used in the past for asthma treatment, our findings suggest that it may not offer substantial benefits when used as a rescue option for these difficult cases. This emphasizes the need for more extensive, multicenter studies to confirm these findings and explore the overall effectiveness of magnesium in pediatric asthma management.
Read More
Most Useful Reviews
9
Enhanced energy levels
68 people found this helpful
I have been using this vitamin for over six months now and I honestly cannot live without it. It has been a tremendous help with my allergies, asthma, and fatigue. I feel such an incredible boost of strength and energy after taking this supplement that I cannot imagine how my day would be without it!
Read More
9
Effective magnesium supplements
15 people found this helpful
I purchased this because my asthma worsened. Previously, I was receiving magnesium infusions at the hospital but had to cancel due to side effects like thirst and erythema. After switching to liquid minerals, I found them effective, but my asthma symptoms returned once I stopped. I believe magnesium is beneficial for asthma. Since I began taking tablet minerals, my seizures have significantly decreased. I also take zinc supplements and flaxseed oil, but I feel that this supplement has had a notable effect.
Read More
6
Relieves asthma symptoms
A great source of magnesium! This quality product from Doctor's Best helps me sleep better and alleviates my asthma symptoms.
We explored the effectiveness and safety of magnesium sulfate as a treatment for acute severe asthma in adults through a thorough analysis of randomized controlled trials. The studies compared the outcomes of patients receiving conventional asthma treatments with those given additional intravenous magnesium sulfate.
Our findings indicated that magnesium sulfate significantly enhances the total response rate and improves lung function, specifically measured by peak expiratory flow and forced expiratory volume. Importantly, we observed no increase in adverse reactions among those treated with magnesium sulfate.
However, we must emphasize that the overall number and quality of studies included in our analysis were limited. This suggests a need for further high-quality research to confirm these benefits in the future.
Read More
8
Magnesium sulfate aids pediatric asthma
Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of Intravenous Magnesium Sulfate in Pediatric Acute Asthma Exacerbations.
We explored how intravenous magnesium sulfate (IVMg) can help children facing severe asthma attacks. The study included 49 pediatric patients who were treated with IVMg after presenting to the emergency department. Some received a placebo, while others were given either 50 or 75 mg/kg of magnesium.
Our analysis showed that higher magnesium levels in the blood were linked to improvements in asthma symptoms, specifically reductions in the Pediatric Respiratory Assessment Measure scores. This suggests that IVMg could be an effective treatment for moderate to severe asthma exacerbations in children.
Interestingly, we noticed that only two out of 31 participants experienced hypotension, showcasing the safety of IVMg, as severe side effects are rare. Moreover, we proposed that a total serum magnesium area under the concentration-time curve greater than 63.1 mg h/L might be a useful target for effective dosing. Further research in larger studies is necessary to confirm these findings, but they indicate that IVMg could serve as a beneficial adjunct treatment for young patients suffering from asthma attacks.
Read More
7
Magnesium shows limited asthma benefit
Can Intravenous Caffeine Citrate Be Used for Severe Asthma Exacerbation in Children? A Retrospective Comparative Study.
We conducted a retrospective cohort study to examine how magnesium sulfate impacts children suffering from severe asthma exacerbations that do not respond to standard treatments like beta2-agonists and steroids. Our research involved a group of young patients who had similar demographic backgrounds and initial health conditions, ensuring a fair evaluation of magnesium's effectiveness compared to intravenous caffeine citrate.
After treatment, we observed that the groups receiving either magnesium or caffeine showed no significant differences in key outcomes. The Paediatric Respiratory Assessment Measure (PRAM) scores, which help assess the severity of asthma symptoms, did not improve markedly between the two. Additionally, there was no notable difference in the length of the pediatric intensive care unit stay or duration of oxygen therapy needed for each group.
While magnesium sulfate has been used in the past for asthma treatment, our findings suggest that it may not offer substantial benefits when used as a rescue option for these difficult cases. This emphasizes the need for more extensive, multicenter studies to confirm these findings and explore the overall effectiveness of magnesium in pediatric asthma management.
Read More
7
Magnesium's role in asthma treatment
A Retrospective Review of Children Admitted With Acute Severe Asthma to the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit, Red Cross War Memorial Children's Hospital Between 2009 and 2019.
We conducted a comprehensive evaluation of the effects of magnesium treatment on children suffering from acute severe asthma (ASA) who were admitted to the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) at the Red Cross War Memorial Children's Hospital over an eleven-year period. During this time, we observed a total of 180 admissions for ASA out of 14,592 PICU visits.
Almost all children received standard treatments, including nebulizations, steroids, and magnesium sulfate, prior to their PICU admission. Among these patients, around 34% had received a salbutamol infusion before being admitted for intensive care. In the PICU, more than 90% of the children received non-invasive respiratory support, showing the severity of their conditions. Notably, while magnesium was used in conjunction with other treatments, the specific isolated effectiveness of magnesium for managing asthma couldn't be clearly assessed.
The findings indicated a steady increase in PICU admissions for ASA throughout the decade. Importantly, no children in the study died, and the average length of stay in PICU was short, typically around one day. While magnesium was part of the treatment regimen, the results didn't provide evidence that it significantly improved outcomes when compared to other treatment options.
Read More
User Reviews
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 4 Reviews
8.6
All Reviews
Positive Reviews
Negative Reviews
9
Enhanced energy levels
68 people found this helpful
I have been using this vitamin for over six months now and I honestly cannot live without it. It has been a tremendous help with my allergies, asthma, and fatigue. I feel such an incredible boost of strength and energy after taking this supplement that I cannot imagine how my day would be without it!
Read More
9
Effective magnesium supplements
15 people found this helpful
I purchased this because my asthma worsened. Previously, I was receiving magnesium infusions at the hospital but had to cancel due to side effects like thirst and erythema. After switching to liquid minerals, I found them effective, but my asthma symptoms returned once I stopped. I believe magnesium is beneficial for asthma. Since I began taking tablet minerals, my seizures have significantly decreased. I also take zinc supplements and flaxseed oil, but I feel that this supplement has had a notable effect.
Read More
6
Relieves asthma symptoms
A great source of magnesium! This quality product from Doctor's Best helps me sleep better and alleviates my asthma symptoms.
Read More
7.5
Supports asthma treatment
Great magnesium! It regulates blood pressure, protects the heart from arrhythmias, prevents blood clots, and reduces the risk of atherosclerosis, type 2 diabetes, and asthma. This valuable element is vital for muscle contraction, is essential for bone health, boosts immunity, and alleviates premenstrual syndrome symptoms. Therefore, I recommend it to both men and women.
Read More
Frequently Asked Questions
Asthma is a chronic condition that affects the airways in the lungs, resulting in symptoms like wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness. The airways can become inflamed and narrowed, making it difficult to breathe, especially during physical activities or during an asthma attack triggered by allergens, irritants, or stress. While asthma can affect individuals of any age, it often begins in childhood, and its severity can vary from mild to life-threatening.
Management of asthma involves avoiding known triggers and using medications such as inhalers that contain bronchodilators and corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and improve airflow. Regular check-ups with a healthcare provider can help individuals manage their condition effectively and develop an asthma action plan tailored to their specific needs. With proper management, many individuals with asthma lead active, healthy lives.
Magnesium is a chemical element with the symbol Mg and atomic number 12. It is a lightweight, silvery-white metal that is a member of the alkaline earth metals group. Often classified as one of the most abundant elements in the Earth's crust, magnesium plays a crucial role in various biological functions and is essential for living organisms. In nature, magnesium can be found in large quantities, primarily in minerals such as dolomite and magnesite, and it is also present in seawater.
In terms of health benefits, magnesium is vital for numerous metabolic processes, including energy production, DNA synthesis, and muscle function. It contributes to bone health, helps regulate blood pressure, and supports bone formation by promoting the effects of vitamin D. The recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for magnesium varies by age and gender, but it is generally important to include magnesium-rich foods like leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and whole grains in your diet to ensure adequate intake. For those who may not receive enough magnesium through their diet alone, supplements are also available; however, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplementation.
Magnesium is known for its role in various bodily functions, and some studies suggest it may have a potential therapeutic effect on asthma. As a natural bronchodilator, magnesium can help open up the airways, making it easier to breathe. In some cases, magnesium sulfate has been used in emergency treatments for severe asthma attacks, particularly in a hospital setting, where it serves to relax the smooth muscles surrounding the airways. However, the evidence regarding oral magnesium supplementation for asthma management is limited and mixed.
While it's always a good idea to consult with your healthcare provider before incorporating supplements into your routine, magnesium can contribute to overall respiratory health, particularly in individuals with a deficiency. Nonetheless, it should not be viewed as a first-line treatment for asthma. Instead, consider it a potential complementary option to more conventional treatments prescribed by a physician. Monitoring your symptoms and maintaining an open dialog with your healthcare provider will always be your best strategy in managing asthma effectively.
Based on user reviews, the time it typically takes to see results from this supplement for asthma can vary significantly from individual to individual. Some users, like the one who reported using the supplement for over six months, found it to be tremendously helpful with their asthma as well as other conditions, indicating that for them, it took several months to experience noticeable benefits Read Review. Another user indicated that they experienced a significant reduction in their asthma symptoms after they started taking the supplement, although they did not specify an exact timeframe Read Review.
It's worth noting that individual responses can differ based on various factors, including the severity of asthma and individual body chemistry. Users generally report an improvement in their symptoms over time, but this process may require consistent use of the supplement to achieve the best results. Thus, while some users may notice an improvement within weeks, others may require months of consistent use to fully realize its benefits.
The research surrounding magnesium sulfate as a treatment for asthma presents a mixed picture. A retrospective study focusing on severe asthma in children found no significant advantages to using magnesium sulfate over other treatments, as both it and intravenous caffeine citrate yielded similar outcomes in terms of symptom severity and intensive care duration [1]. Similarly, another study involving children in South Africa found that, although magnesium was part of the treatment regimen for acute severe asthma, it could not be isolated to demonstrate significant effectiveness beyond standard therapies [2].
On the adult side, some studies indicated potential benefits of magnesium sulfate, such as improvements in lung function and total response rates without increased adverse reactions [3]. However, it is important to note that the overall quality of studies exploring this avenue was limited, suggesting a need for more rigorous research. In pediatric cases, an exploratory study indicated promising results for intravenous magnesium sulfate, showing improvements in asthma symptoms with minimal side effects [4]. Still, larger studies are necessary to substantiate these findings. Overall, while magnesium sulfate shows some potential, especially in specific contexts, more comprehensive research is essential to firmly establish its efficacy for asthma management.
Users report a range of improvements in their symptoms related to asthma and overall well-being after using this supplement. For instance, one user noted a tremendous benefit for their asthma, allergies, and fatigue after six months of consistent use, describing an incredible boost in strength and energy levels Read Review. Another reviewer highlighted a notable reduction in asthma symptoms after switching from liquid minerals to tablet minerals, indicating that magnesium plays a crucial role in managing their condition Read Review.
Additionally, users have reported improved sleep and overall health outcomes linked to magnesium intake. For example, one user mentioned that this supplement helped them sleep better while alleviating their asthma symptoms Read Review. Others have recognized magnesium's broader benefits, such as regulating blood pressure and protecting heart health, which may indirectly benefit those with respiratory issues Read Review. Overall, while many users report positive outcomes, it's essential to note that individual results can vary significantly based on unique health conditions and responses to supplementation.
Based on user reviews, many individuals have found that combining this supplement with other supplements can be beneficial for managing asthma symptoms. One user reported a significant improvement in their asthma after switching from liquid to tablet forms of minerals, particularly emphasizing the role of magnesium, which they believe is vital for asthma management. This user also noted that they take zinc and flaxseed oil alongside the magnesium supplement and feel that it has had a notable effect on their condition Read Review.
Additionally, several users have highlighted the positive impact of magnesium on their sleep quality and asthma symptoms. One user specifically mentioned that this supplement helped them sleep better while alleviating their asthma issues, indicating an overlap in benefits when used with other health-supporting supplements Read Review. Overall, it appears that users generally report enhanced outcomes when combining this magnesium supplement with others, suggesting a synergistic effect that could be useful for those managing asthma Read Review.
Based on user reviews, it appears that there is a positive sentiment regarding the use of magnesium for treating asthma, although specific dosages were not detailed in the feedback. One user reported that after switching to tablet minerals, their asthma symptoms improved significantly compared to when they stopped taking magnesium altogether, highlighting its perceived benefits for asthma management (Read Review). Additionally, another user noted that magnesium helped alleviate their asthma symptoms while also improving their sleep quality, indicating its multifaceted advantages (Read Review).
Moreover, users generally emphasize that magnesium contributes positively to overall health, including potentially reducing asthma symptoms alongside its other health benefits. However, concrete dosing guidelines were not provided in the reviews, suggesting that users might tailor their intake based on individual experience and response to the supplement. It might be advisable for those considering magnesium for asthma to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized dosing recommendations.
9
Enhanced energy levels
68 people found this helpful
I have been using this vitamin for over six months now and I honestly cannot live without it. It has been a tremendous help with my allergies, asthma, and fatigue. I feel such an incredible boost of strength and energy after taking this supplement that I cannot imagine how my day would be without it!
6
Relieves asthma symptoms
A great source of magnesium! This quality product from Doctor's Best helps me sleep better and alleviates my asthma symptoms.
9
Effective magnesium supplements
15 people found this helpful
I purchased this because my asthma worsened. Previously, I was receiving magnesium infusions at the hospital but had to cancel due to side effects like thirst and erythema. After switching to liquid minerals, I found them effective, but my asthma symptoms returned once I stopped. I believe magnesium is beneficial for asthma. Since I began taking tablet minerals, my seizures have significantly decreased. I also take zinc supplements and flaxseed oil, but I feel that this supplement has had a notable effect.
7.5
Supports asthma treatment
Great magnesium! It regulates blood pressure, protects the heart from arrhythmias, prevents blood clots, and reduces the risk of atherosclerosis, type 2 diabetes, and asthma. This valuable element is vital for muscle contraction, is essential for bone health, boosts immunity, and alleviates premenstrual syndrome symptoms. Therefore, I recommend it to both men and women.
7
Magnesium shows limited asthma benefit
Can Intravenous Caffeine Citrate Be Used for Severe Asthma Exacerbation in Children? A Retrospective Comparative Study.
We conducted a retrospective cohort study to examine how magnesium sulfate impacts children suffering from severe asthma exacerbations that do not respond to standard treatments like beta2-agonists and steroids. Our research involved a group of young patients who had similar demographic backgrounds and initial health conditions, ensuring a fair evaluation of magnesium's effectiveness compared to intravenous caffeine citrate.
After treatment, we observed that the groups receiving either magnesium or caffeine showed no significant differences in key outcomes. The Paediatric Respiratory Assessment Measure (PRAM) scores, which help assess the severity of asthma symptoms, did not improve markedly between the two. Additionally, there was no notable difference in the length of the pediatric intensive care unit stay or duration of oxygen therapy needed for each group.
While magnesium sulfate has been used in the past for asthma treatment, our findings suggest that it may not offer substantial benefits when used as a rescue option for these difficult cases. This emphasizes the need for more extensive, multicenter studies to confirm these findings and explore the overall effectiveness of magnesium in pediatric asthma management.
7
Magnesium's role in asthma treatment
A Retrospective Review of Children Admitted With Acute Severe Asthma to the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit, Red Cross War Memorial Children's Hospital Between 2009 and 2019.
We conducted a comprehensive evaluation of the effects of magnesium treatment on children suffering from acute severe asthma (ASA) who were admitted to the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) at the Red Cross War Memorial Children's Hospital over an eleven-year period. During this time, we observed a total of 180 admissions for ASA out of 14,592 PICU visits.
Almost all children received standard treatments, including nebulizations, steroids, and magnesium sulfate, prior to their PICU admission. Among these patients, around 34% had received a salbutamol infusion before being admitted for intensive care. In the PICU, more than 90% of the children received non-invasive respiratory support, showing the severity of their conditions. Notably, while magnesium was used in conjunction with other treatments, the specific isolated effectiveness of magnesium for managing asthma couldn't be clearly assessed.
The findings indicated a steady increase in PICU admissions for ASA throughout the decade. Importantly, no children in the study died, and the average length of stay in PICU was short, typically around one day. While magnesium was part of the treatment regimen, the results didn't provide evidence that it significantly improved outcomes when compared to other treatment options.
8
Magnesium sulfate improves asthma outcomes
[Efficacy and safety of magnesium sulfate in the treatment of adult patients with acute severe asthma: a Meta-analysis].
We explored the effectiveness and safety of magnesium sulfate as a treatment for acute severe asthma in adults through a thorough analysis of randomized controlled trials. The studies compared the outcomes of patients receiving conventional asthma treatments with those given additional intravenous magnesium sulfate.
Our findings indicated that magnesium sulfate significantly enhances the total response rate and improves lung function, specifically measured by peak expiratory flow and forced expiratory volume. Importantly, we observed no increase in adverse reactions among those treated with magnesium sulfate.
However, we must emphasize that the overall number and quality of studies included in our analysis were limited. This suggests a need for further high-quality research to confirm these benefits in the future.
8
Magnesium sulfate aids pediatric asthma
Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of Intravenous Magnesium Sulfate in Pediatric Acute Asthma Exacerbations.
We explored how intravenous magnesium sulfate (IVMg) can help children facing severe asthma attacks. The study included 49 pediatric patients who were treated with IVMg after presenting to the emergency department. Some received a placebo, while others were given either 50 or 75 mg/kg of magnesium.
Our analysis showed that higher magnesium levels in the blood were linked to improvements in asthma symptoms, specifically reductions in the Pediatric Respiratory Assessment Measure scores. This suggests that IVMg could be an effective treatment for moderate to severe asthma exacerbations in children.
Interestingly, we noticed that only two out of 31 participants experienced hypotension, showcasing the safety of IVMg, as severe side effects are rare. Moreover, we proposed that a total serum magnesium area under the concentration-time curve greater than 63.1 mg h/L might be a useful target for effective dosing. Further research in larger studies is necessary to confirm these findings, but they indicate that IVMg could serve as a beneficial adjunct treatment for young patients suffering from asthma attacks.
References
Brooks R, Babushkin V, Rekhtman D, Cohen-Cymberknoh M, Shoseyov D, et al. Can Intravenous Caffeine Citrate Be Used for Severe Asthma Exacerbation in Children? A Retrospective Comparative Study. J Paediatr Child Health. 2025. 10.1111/jpc.16799
Salie M, Salie S. A Retrospective Review of Children Admitted With Acute Severe Asthma to the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit, Red Cross War Memorial Children's Hospital Between 2009 and 2019. J Paediatr Child Health. 2025. 10.1111/jpc.16776
Zhong Z, Wang Z, Qi S, Li C, Yang X. [Efficacy and safety of magnesium sulfate in the treatment of adult patients with acute severe asthma: a Meta-analysis]. Zhonghua Wei Zhong Bing Ji Jiu Yi Xue. 2024;36:1256. 10.3760/cma.j.cn121430-20240617-00514
Rower JE, Johnson MD, Zorc JJ, Shihabuddin B, Dai M, et al. Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of Intravenous Magnesium Sulfate in Pediatric Acute Asthma Exacerbations. J Clin Pharmacol. 2025. 10.1002/jcph.6179