A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicenter study assessing the efficacy of magnesium oxide monohydrate in the treatment of nocturnal leg cramps.
We conducted a study to evaluate how effective magnesium oxide monohydrate (MOMH) is in treating nocturnal leg cramps (NLC). This was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial involving multiple centers in Ukraine, where participants took either MOMH or a placebo nightly for 60 days.
Our focus was on measuring the frequency and duration of cramps, the pain they caused, and how they affected sleep quality and overall life satisfaction. We used thorough statistical methods to compare the results between the two groups.
The findings indicated that MOMH is both effective and safe for individuals dealing with NLC. Participants reported improvements in their symptoms, demonstrating that this magnesium supplement can play a helpful role in managing nocturnal leg cramps.
Read More
9
Magnesium reduces pregnancy leg cramps
Oral magnesium for relief in pregnancy-induced leg cramps: a randomised controlled trial.
We sought to understand the effectiveness of oral magnesium in treating leg cramps experienced by pregnant women. Our study was well-structured, involving a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled design. It included 86 healthy pregnant women between 14 to 34 weeks of gestation who encountered leg cramps at least twice a week, and we followed them over a four-week period.
At the end of the study, we discovered that the women taking magnesium bisglycinate chelate (300 mg per day) reported a significant reduction in cramp frequency—86% experienced at least a 50% drop compared to only 60.5% of those taking the placebo. Additionally, those on magnesium also noted a notable decrease in cramp intensity, with 69.8% achieving a similar improvement versus just 48.8% in the placebo group.
Encouragingly, we found no major side effects reported in either group, such as nausea or diarrhea. Our findings suggest that magnesium supplements can effectively reduce both the frequency and severity of leg cramps during pregnancy, offering a potential treatment option for women dealing with this common issue.
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7
Magnesium's potential against cramps
Randomised, cross-over, placebo controlled trial of magnesium citrate in the treatment of chronic persistent leg cramps.
We set out to investigate whether magnesium citrate could be an effective remedy for those who experience bothersome leg cramps, particularly at night. In our study, we used a randomised, double-blind, cross-over, placebo-controlled design to ensure reliable results. Participants suffering from regular leg cramps were recruited and given either magnesium citrate or a matching placebo over six weeks.
Our findings revealed that those who began the trial with the placebo experienced an average reduction in cramps when taking magnesium, with a median of 5 cramps compared to 9 on the placebo. Moreover, a notable percentage of participants felt that the magnesium treatment had indeed helped them, with 78% reporting benefits, as opposed to 54% who felt the placebo was effective.
While these results suggest that magnesium may have a positive impact, it’s essential to mention that the impact on cramp severity and duration wasn’t significantly different between the two groups. Additionally, some participants did report experiencing diarrhoea as a side effect of magnesium. Overall, we believe magnesium shows promise in alleviating nocturnal leg cramps and recommend further research to fully evaluate its effectiveness.
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Most Useful Reviews
9
Effective treatment
1 people found this helpful
Is there a result? I experienced cramps at night, but after starting this product, everything has improved in just two weeks! I initially took two tablets daily, and now I'm down to one. I am very pleased with the product and would recommend it!
Read More
9
Mood improvement
I purchased this vitamin complex for my mother, who started experiencing leg cramps in rainy weather. After a month of use, she's no longer complaining of pain and cramps. Additionally, she's noticed an improvement in her mood and energy. It's unfortunate that this vitamin complex is often out of stock, but overall, everything is excellent.
Read More
9
Sleep aid
I highly recommend this product; I always buy it for my parents. They report that it helps them sleep well without experiencing cramps or muscle soreness in their legs, and it is reasonably priced.
We observed an interesting case regarding the effects of calcium treatment on leg cramps related to a chemotherapy drug called oxaliplatin. In this case, a 62-year-old woman undergoing palliative treatment for stage IV colon cancer experienced acute neurotoxicity symptoms. Notably, thirty minutes after her first infusion of oxaliplatin, which she received in her left arm, she developed cramps and paresthesia in her right leg.
As part of her treatment for these symptoms, intravenous calcium gluconate was administered alongside magnesium sulfate. This combination helped alleviate her leg cramping and associated symptoms within three hours. However, while calcium was part of the treatment regimen, it is important to note that its isolated effectiveness on leg cramps is unclear due to its concurrent administration with magnesium.
Consequently, while we saw improvement in the patient's symptoms, it is difficult to attribute these results solely to calcium. Instead, it suggests that magnesium might be playing a significant role as well. Future investigations could help clarify the specific contributions of calcium in treating leg cramps related to neurotoxicity and other conditions.
Read More
9
Calcium dobesilate reduces leg cramps
Calcium dobesilate for chronic venous insufficiency: a systematic review.
We examined the benefits of calcium dobesilate for patients suffering from chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), particularly focusing on how it impacts symptoms like leg cramps. In a systematic evaluation of ten different clinical trials involving 778 patients, we compared the effects of calcium dobesilate to a placebo.
Our analysis found that calcium dobesilate significantly reduced night cramps, helping patients nearly twice as much as those who received a placebo. The number needed to treat for this relief was calculated to be 8, indicating that for every eight patients treated with calcium dobesilate, one experienced noticeable improvement.
Moreover, patients also reported less discomfort, with a number needed to treat of 4 for that symptom. Interestingly, we noted that those with more severe symptoms experienced even greater relief, suggesting that calcium dobesilate is particularly effective for patients with advanced CVI. However, both doses tested—1,000 mg and 1,500 mg—proved equally effective, which is good news as it suggests that a lower dose might suffice.
Additionally, we found that adverse events were not significantly different from the placebo group, indicating a favorable safety profile. While calcium dobesilate shows promise, we acknowledge the need for further studies to solidify these findings and explore its efficacy in various CVI stages.
Read More
9
Magnesium oxide treats leg cramps
A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicenter study assessing the efficacy of magnesium oxide monohydrate in the treatment of nocturnal leg cramps.
We conducted a study to evaluate how effective magnesium oxide monohydrate (MOMH) is in treating nocturnal leg cramps (NLC). This was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial involving multiple centers in Ukraine, where participants took either MOMH or a placebo nightly for 60 days.
Our focus was on measuring the frequency and duration of cramps, the pain they caused, and how they affected sleep quality and overall life satisfaction. We used thorough statistical methods to compare the results between the two groups.
The findings indicated that MOMH is both effective and safe for individuals dealing with NLC. Participants reported improvements in their symptoms, demonstrating that this magnesium supplement can play a helpful role in managing nocturnal leg cramps.
Read More
9
Magnesium reduces pregnancy leg cramps
Oral magnesium for relief in pregnancy-induced leg cramps: a randomised controlled trial.
We sought to understand the effectiveness of oral magnesium in treating leg cramps experienced by pregnant women. Our study was well-structured, involving a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled design. It included 86 healthy pregnant women between 14 to 34 weeks of gestation who encountered leg cramps at least twice a week, and we followed them over a four-week period.
At the end of the study, we discovered that the women taking magnesium bisglycinate chelate (300 mg per day) reported a significant reduction in cramp frequency—86% experienced at least a 50% drop compared to only 60.5% of those taking the placebo. Additionally, those on magnesium also noted a notable decrease in cramp intensity, with 69.8% achieving a similar improvement versus just 48.8% in the placebo group.
Encouragingly, we found no major side effects reported in either group, such as nausea or diarrhea. Our findings suggest that magnesium supplements can effectively reduce both the frequency and severity of leg cramps during pregnancy, offering a potential treatment option for women dealing with this common issue.
Read More
8
Calcium relief for leg cramps uncertain
Growth Hormone Deficiency in an Adolescent With Pseudohypoparathyroidism Type 1B.
We explored the impact of calcium treatment on leg cramps in an adolescent diagnosed with pseudohypoparathyroidism type 1B. The patient experienced symptoms such as muscle cramps and leg pain during activities, with laboratory tests revealing hypocalcemia and an elevated parathyroid hormone level.
While calcium treatment was part of a combined therapy that included other medications, we observed that the muscle cramps and hypocalcemia resolved after administering calcium carbonate, ergocalciferol, and calcitriol. However, due to the combination of treatments, it is challenging to determine the isolated effect of calcium on the leg cramps specifically.
Ultimately, while calcium contributed to symptom relief, our study does not provide conclusive evidence on its effectiveness alone for alleviating leg cramps. This highlights the need for further investigation into how calcium might individually influence leg cramp symptoms in such patients.
Is there a result? I experienced cramps at night, but after starting this product, everything has improved in just two weeks! I initially took two tablets daily, and now I'm down to one. I am very pleased with the product and would recommend it!
Read More
9
Mood improvement
I purchased this vitamin complex for my mother, who started experiencing leg cramps in rainy weather. After a month of use, she's no longer complaining of pain and cramps. Additionally, she's noticed an improvement in her mood and energy. It's unfortunate that this vitamin complex is often out of stock, but overall, everything is excellent.
Read More
9
Sleep aid
I highly recommend this product; I always buy it for my parents. They report that it helps them sleep well without experiencing cramps or muscle soreness in their legs, and it is reasonably priced.
Read More
9
Consistent use
My mother has been taking this for three years and has not stopped since. It has significantly helped her alleviate frequent leg cramps at night.
Read More
9
Calcium supplement
This is a good calcium supplement for those deficient in calcium! After taking these vitamins, my legs have almost stopped hurting. I would recommend it!
Leg cramps, often referred to as "charley horses," are sudden, involuntary contractions of one or more muscles in the leg. They typically occur in the calf muscles but can also affect the thighs and feet. These cramps can be quite painful and may last from a few seconds to several minutes. While the exact cause of leg cramps is not always clear, they can be triggered by factors such as dehydration, prolonged sitting or standing, electrolyte imbalances, or physical activity, especially in those who are not used to vigorous exercise.
Treatment for leg cramps often involves stretching the affected muscle gently, applying heat or cold to the area, and ensuring adequate hydration. For some, dietary adjustments to include more potassium, magnesium, and calcium may help prevent future occurrences. If cramps are frequent or severely debilitating, it may be beneficial to consult a healthcare provider for a more tailored approach. Understanding the underlying causes of leg cramps can lead to more effective management strategies, improving overall comfort and mobility.
Calcium is a chemical element represented by the symbol Ca and atomic number 20. It is an essential mineral in the body, playing a critical role in various physiological processes. As one of the most abundant elements in nature, calcium is particularly vital for maintaining strong bones and teeth, where about 99% of the body's calcium is stored. Beyond its structural function, calcium is crucial in muscle contraction, blood clotting, and nerve transmission, making it a key player in overall health.
Dietary sources of calcium include dairy products such as milk, yogurt, and cheese, as well as leafy green vegetables, nuts, seeds, and fortified foods. The recommended daily intake of calcium varies by age and sex, but generally, adults should aim for approximately 1,000 mg per day. For those who may struggle to meet their needs through diet alone, calcium supplements are available but should be taken with caution. It's essential to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen to avoid potential side effects or interactions with medications.
Calcium is an essential mineral that plays a crucial role in various bodily functions, including muscle contraction and nerve signaling. While there is some evidence suggesting that adequate calcium levels can help prevent muscle cramps, particularly in conditions of deficiency, the relationship isn't entirely straightforward. Many people experience leg cramps due to factors such as dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, or prolonged sitting or standing, rather than solely a lack of calcium.
If you find yourself experiencing frequent leg cramps, it's important to consider a holistic approach that includes maintaining proper hydration, stretching before and after physical activities, and ensuring a balanced intake of essential nutrients, including potassium, magnesium, and calcium. If cramps persist, consulting a healthcare professional is advisable to rule out underlying conditions or deficiencies. Ultimately, while calcium can contribute to overall muscle function, it may not be the sole solution for preventing leg cramps.
Based on user reviews, many individuals report noticeable improvements in leg cramps within a relatively short time frame. For instance, one user indicated that after just two weeks of taking the supplement, they experienced significant alleviation of their night cramps (Read Review). Another user noted a month of usage led to no longer experiencing pain and cramps, alongside an enhancement in mood and energy levels for their mother (Read Review).
Overall, results seem to vary but generally fall within the range of two weeks to a month for the alleviation of leg cramps. Long-term users, like one individual who has taken the supplement for three years, affirm that it has continuously helped with frequent night cramps (Read Review). This suggests that while initial benefits may be apparent quickly, ongoing use may be necessary for sustained relief.
When considering calcium supplements for alleviating leg cramps, the scientific evidence presents a mixed picture. Several studies suggest that calcium may provide some relief, primarily among specific populations like pregnant women. For instance, one systematic review indicated that pregnant women taking calcium experienced a lower frequency of leg cramps compared to those who did not receive treatment. However, the quality of the studies was generally low, and the conclusions are not definitive, emphasizing that while calcium could help some individuals, its efficacy remains uncertain ([4]).
In addition to calcium, studies also evaluated calcium dobesilate in patients with chronic venous insufficiency and found it significantly reduced nocturnal leg cramps, highlighting potential application in that specific condition ([6]). However, overall, while some data suggests a possible benefit of calcium supplements, further research is warranted to truly ascertain their effectiveness in managing leg cramps across different groups, particularly since many studies highlight the need for more robust clinical trials with clearer results.
Based on user reviews, various individuals report significant improvement in their symptoms after taking this supplement. For instance, one user mentioned that after just two weeks of usage, their leg cramps improved considerably, allowing them to reduce their intake from two tablets to one (Read Review). Another user shared that after a month of using the product, their mother experienced relief from leg cramps and also noted enhancements in mood and energy levels. This feedback underscores a broad consensus that most users notice positive changes within a timeframe ranging from two weeks to a month (Read Review).
Additionally, some users have reported long-term benefits, indicating sustained relief from cramps after extended use. For example, a user mentioned their mother has been taking the supplement for three years with continued success in alleviating frequent night cramps (Read Review). Others have also noted an overall enhancement in sleep quality and reduced muscle soreness, suggesting that while results may vary by individual, many experience significant improvements with regular use (Read Review).
Based on user reviews, there appears to be a favorable sentiment regarding the combination of this supplement with other nutrients for managing leg cramps. Several users highlighted the efficacy of the blend of calcium, magnesium, and zinc, which they found particularly helpful in alleviating cramps. One user stated that this combination has greatly alleviated their cramps and bone pain, making it an excellent nutritional supplement for them (Read Review). Another user, while discussing their results, mentioned that since starting this product, they have experienced fewer muscle cramps, indicating positive effects from its nutrient profile (Read Review).
Additionally, long-term users have noted sustained benefits while using this supplement in conjunction with other dietary considerations. For example, one reviewer shared that the product has effectively helped them manage leg cramps during pregnancy over two years of use, further emphasizing its versatility and effectiveness across different situations (Read Review). Overall, users report that combining this supplement with proper nutrition has enhanced their experience in dealing with leg cramps and improved their overall well-being.
Users have provided a range of experiences regarding the appropriate dose of calcium for alleviating leg cramps. A common theme includes starting with a higher dosage and then adjusting downwards. For instance, one user reported beginning with two tablets daily and then tapering down to one after two weeks due to significant improvement in cramps Read Review. Similarly, another user noted continued relief from leg cramps after consistent use of the supplement, indicating that regular intake has long-term benefits Read Review.
The combination of calcium with magnesium and zinc also received positive feedback, suggesting that a multi-mineral approach may enhance effectiveness. Users mentioned feeling fewer muscle cramps overall, indicating that maintaining a balanced intake might be crucial for optimal results Read Review. While exact dosages can vary from one individual to another, many users reported positive results with consistent supplementation, pointing to the importance of finding a dose that feels effective for each person.
9
Effective treatment
1 people found this helpful
Is there a result? I experienced cramps at night, but after starting this product, everything has improved in just two weeks! I initially took two tablets daily, and now I'm down to one. I am very pleased with the product and would recommend it!
9
Mood improvement
I purchased this vitamin complex for my mother, who started experiencing leg cramps in rainy weather. After a month of use, she's no longer complaining of pain and cramps. Additionally, she's noticed an improvement in her mood and energy. It's unfortunate that this vitamin complex is often out of stock, but overall, everything is excellent.
9
Consistent use
My mother has been taking this for three years and has not stopped since. It has significantly helped her alleviate frequent leg cramps at night.
9
Sleep aid
I highly recommend this product; I always buy it for my parents. They report that it helps them sleep well without experiencing cramps or muscle soreness in their legs, and it is reasonably priced.
7.5
Bone pain relief
The quality is good with simple ingredients. As a person in their 30s-40s, I particularly benefit during certain periods. The combination of calcium, magnesium, and zinc helps alleviate cramps and bone pain. It's an excellent nutritional supplement.
7.5
Muscle cramp reduction
I appreciate the combination of calcium, magnesium, and zinc, as I’ve experienced fewer muscle cramps since starting this product.
7.5
Pregnancy relief
I've been using this product for the second year. Despite some complaints about zinc oxide and magnesium oxide, it has effectively helped me manage leg cramps during my pregnancy.
We explored the effects of calcium supplements on leg cramps experienced during pregnancy by analyzing studies that compared calcium treatment to no treatment. The research included one trial with 43 women, evaluating how well calcium helped alleviate leg cramps.
The findings suggested that women taking calcium were more likely to experience fewer leg cramps after treatment compared to those who didn't receive any treatment. Specifically, a higher proportion of women reported having no leg cramps at all after taking calcium. However, the evidence was classified as very low quality, making it difficult to draw strong conclusions.
Overall, while calcium appeared to offer some benefit in reducing leg cramps, the lack of rigorous studies and clear outcomes means we should approach these findings with caution. Further research is needed to confirm these effects and establish a clearer understanding of how calcium works for pregnant women dealing with leg cramps.
9
Calcium dobesilate reduces leg cramps
Calcium dobesilate for chronic venous insufficiency: a systematic review.
We examined the benefits of calcium dobesilate for patients suffering from chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), particularly focusing on how it impacts symptoms like leg cramps. In a systematic evaluation of ten different clinical trials involving 778 patients, we compared the effects of calcium dobesilate to a placebo.
Our analysis found that calcium dobesilate significantly reduced night cramps, helping patients nearly twice as much as those who received a placebo. The number needed to treat for this relief was calculated to be 8, indicating that for every eight patients treated with calcium dobesilate, one experienced noticeable improvement.
Moreover, patients also reported less discomfort, with a number needed to treat of 4 for that symptom. Interestingly, we noted that those with more severe symptoms experienced even greater relief, suggesting that calcium dobesilate is particularly effective for patients with advanced CVI. However, both doses tested—1,000 mg and 1,500 mg—proved equally effective, which is good news as it suggests that a lower dose might suffice.
Additionally, we found that adverse events were not significantly different from the placebo group, indicating a favorable safety profile. While calcium dobesilate shows promise, we acknowledge the need for further studies to solidify these findings and explore its efficacy in various CVI stages.
References
Sasidharan Pillai S, Reyes M, Jüppner H, Topor LS. Growth Hormone Deficiency in an Adolescent With Pseudohypoparathyroidism Type 1B. JCEM Case Rep. 2024;2:luae152. doi:10.1210/jcemcr/luae152
Luo L, Zhou K, Zhang J, Xu L, Yin W. Interventions for leg cramps in pregnancy. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2020;12:CD010655. doi:10.1002/14651858.CD010655.pub3
Mansouri A, Mirghafourvand M, Charandabi SMA, Najafi M. The effect of Vitamin D and calcium plus Vitamin D on leg cramps in pregnant women: A randomized controlled trial. J Res Med Sci. 2017;22:24. doi:10.4103/1735-1995.200271
Zhou K, West HM, Zhang J, Xu L, Li W. Interventions for leg cramps in pregnancy. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2015. doi:10.1002/14651858.CD010655.pub2
Uña E. Atypical presentation of acute neurotoxicity secondary to oxaliplatin. J Oncol Pharm Pract. 2010;16:280. doi:10.1177/1078155209355849
Ciapponi A, Laffaire E, Roqué M. Calcium dobesilate for chronic venous insufficiency: a systematic review. Angiology. 2004;55:147.
Young GL, Jewell D. Interventions for leg cramps in pregnancy. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2002.
Young GL, Jewell D. Interventions for leg cramps in pregnancy. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2000;2002:CD000121.
Barna O, Lohoida P, Holovchenko Y, Bazylevych A, Velychko V, et al. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicenter study assessing the efficacy of magnesium oxide monohydrate in the treatment of nocturnal leg cramps. Nutr J. 2021;20:90. doi:10.1186/s12937-021-00747-9
Liu J, Song G, Zhao G, Meng T. Effect of oral magnesium supplementation for relieving leg cramps during pregnancy: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Taiwan J Obstet Gynecol. 2021;60:609. doi:10.1016/j.tjog.2021.05.006
Garrison SR, Korownyk CS, Kolber MR, Allan GM, Musini VM, et al. Magnesium for skeletal muscle cramps. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2020;9:CD009402. doi:10.1002/14651858.CD009402.pub3
Araújo CAL, Lorena SB, Cavalcanti GCS, Leão GLS, Tenório GP, et al. Oral magnesium supplementation for leg cramps in pregnancy-An observational controlled trial. PLoS One. 2020;15:e0227497. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0227497
Sebo P, Haller D, Cerutti B, Maisonneuve H. A prospective observational study of the main features of nocturnal leg cramps in primary care. Swiss Med Wkly. 2019;149:w20048. doi:10.4414/smw.2019.20048
Roguin Maor N, Alperin M, Shturman E, Khairaldeen H, Friedman M, et al. Effect of Magnesium Oxide Supplementation on Nocturnal Leg Cramps: A Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA Intern Med. 2017;177:617. doi:10.1001/jamainternmed.2016.9261
Sebo P, Cerutti B, Haller DM. Effect of magnesium therapy on nocturnal leg cramps: a systematic review of randomized controlled trials with meta-analysis using simulations. Fam Pract. 2014;31:7. doi:10.1093/fampra/cmt065
Garrison SR, Allan GM, Sekhon RK, Musini VM, Khan KM. Magnesium for skeletal muscle cramps. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2012;2012:CD009402. doi:10.1002/14651858.CD009402.pub2
Supakatisant C, Phupong V. Oral magnesium for relief in pregnancy-induced leg cramps: a randomised controlled trial. Matern Child Nutr. 2015;11:139. doi:10.1111/j.1740-8709.2012.00440.x
Garrison SR, Birmingham CL, Koehler BE, McCollom RA, Khan KM. The effect of magnesium infusion on rest cramps: randomized controlled trial. J Gerontol A Biol Sci Med Sci. 2011;66:661. doi:10.1093/gerona/glq232
Roffe C, Sills S, Crome P, Jones P. Randomised, cross-over, placebo controlled trial of magnesium citrate in the treatment of chronic persistent leg cramps. Med Sci Monit. 2002;8:CR326.
Frusso R, Zárate M, Augustovski F, Rubinstein A. Magnesium for the treatment of nocturnal leg cramps: a crossover randomized trial. J Fam Pract. 1999;48:868.
Dahle LO, Berg G, Hammar M, Hurtig M, Larsson L. The effect of oral magnesium substitution on pregnancy-induced leg cramps. Am J Obstet Gynecol. 1995;173:175.