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 for cramps
6 people found this helpful
It genuinely helps with leg cramps! I'm on Keto and take these nightly to alleviate leg cramps. I notice a significant difference on nights I forget to take them. A good product that I've reordered several times.
Read More
10
No more cramps
3 people found this helpful
The best magnesium! I suffer from cramps in my feet and calves. I tried everything, including potassium, which didn’t work. I then discovered it was a magnesium deficiency. After trying several magnesium supplements, I found this liquid magnesium citrate, which absorbs better. The best part isn't the price, but the result: NO MORE CRAMPS. If you struggle with leg cramps, I suggest two things: keep your legs warm and use this supplement.
Read More
9
Effective magnesium source
3 people found this helpful
A good source of magnesium. I need these for leg cramping. The capsules are easy to swallow and effectively keep the leg cramps at bay.
We explored the effects of magnesium treatment in a unique case involving a 62-year-old woman with stage IV colon cancer undergoing oxaliplatin therapy. Shortly after her first infusion, we observed that she experienced significant neurological symptoms, including right hemibody paresthesia, muscle cramping in her right calf, and dysphonia.
To address these symptoms, she was administered intravenous magnesium sulfate along with calcium gluconate. Remarkably, within three hours, all her symptoms resolved. While this case suggests that magnesium can provide relief from cramps and other neurological side effects, it is important to note that magnesium was used in conjunction with other medications, making it challenging to assess its isolated effectiveness.
For future doses, the oxaliplatin was adjusted by reducing the dose and extending the infusion duration, which minimized her symptoms to occasional mild paresthesia. In summary, while magnesium showed promise in this case, further research is needed to determine its specific impact on leg cramps in a clearer, more controlled manner.
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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
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.
We explored the effectiveness of magnesium treatment for leg cramps during pregnancy through a review of five randomized trials involving 352 women.
The trials varied in quality, but interestingly, they included comparisons of different treatments such as calcium and sodium chloride against placebos. While the placebo-controlled trial that investigated calcium did not show any significant benefits, there were hints of promise for magnesium.
For those looking for relief from troublesome leg cramps, our analysis indicated that magnesium—specifically in the forms of magnesium lactate or citrate—might help. Taking 5mmol in the morning and 10mmol in the evening seemed to provide the best results.
However, the evidence remains mixed, and we couldn't pinpoint any strong benefits from other combinations or supplements tested. So, while magnesium might be beneficial, it’s essential to approach it as one option among many.
It genuinely helps with leg cramps! I'm on Keto and take these nightly to alleviate leg cramps. I notice a significant difference on nights I forget to take them. A good product that I've reordered several times.
Read More
10
No more cramps
3 people found this helpful
The best magnesium! I suffer from cramps in my feet and calves. I tried everything, including potassium, which didn’t work. I then discovered it was a magnesium deficiency. After trying several magnesium supplements, I found this liquid magnesium citrate, which absorbs better. The best part isn't the price, but the result: NO MORE CRAMPS. If you struggle with leg cramps, I suggest two things: keep your legs warm and use this supplement.
Read More
9
Effective magnesium source
3 people found this helpful
A good source of magnesium. I need these for leg cramping. The capsules are easy to swallow and effectively keep the leg cramps at bay.
Read More
9
Cramps relief
3 people found this helpful
A great deal to assist me with leg cramps while also maintaining my regularity. The colour and flavour were acceptable, but the results outweigh those factors. It effectively relieved my leg cramps and helps me stay more regular.
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10
Old lady remedy
Horse pills but worth it! Perfect for managing my leg cramps. I take two every night before bed, and I am cramp-free.
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.
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 has been noted for its potential role in alleviating leg cramps, particularly in individuals who experience nocturnal leg cramps or muscle spasms. As an essential mineral, magnesium contributes to muscle function and helps regulate muscle contractions. Some studies suggest that supplementing with magnesium may lead to a decrease in the frequency and intensity of leg cramps, especially in populations at risk for magnesium deficiency, such as older adults or those with specific health conditions.
That said, while magnesium supplementation could be beneficial, it's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplements. They can provide personalized advice based on your health history and dietary needs. Moreover, ensuring a balanced intake of nutrients, staying hydrated, and maintaining regular physical activity can also play significant roles in managing leg cramps effectively.
Based on user reviews, many individuals report experiencing relief from leg cramps relatively quickly after starting magnesium supplementation. One user noted that after experimenting with various products, they found their cramping completely resolved with the magnesium citrate, citing "NO MORE CRAMPS" as a result of using the supplement consistently Read Review. Other users suggest taking the supplement regularly, such as one reviewer who takes it every night and reports being "cramp-free" as a result of their regimen Read Review.
Specific timelines vary; however, several comments indicate that users experience noticeable improvements within a short period after beginning supplementation. For example, one review mentions a significant decrease in cramps, suggesting an effective response soon after starting the magnesium Read Review. Overall, for those struggling with cramps, consistent use of magnesium may yield results within a few days to weeks.
When it comes to the effectiveness of magnesium as a supplement for treating leg cramps, the research presents a mixed picture. Several studies have demonstrated that magnesium supplements can lead to improvements in nocturnal leg cramps, with magnesium oxide monohydrate (MOMH) being highlighted as both effective and safe in reducing frequency and severity of cramps (see [1]). However, other supporting studies indicate that while magnesium treatment shows some promise, it does not consistently outpace a placebo in reducing the occurrence or intensity of leg cramps for the general population, particularly among older adults and pregnant women (see [2], [4]).
For pregnant women, the results are less encouraging; while some studies do hint at potential benefits, a systematic review indicates that magnesium is not a universally effective treatment for pregnancy-related leg cramps. Some trials report minor reductions, but the overall evidence remains inconclusive and inconsistent (see [8], [5]). Consequently, more thorough and rigorous studies are needed to establish magnesium’s true role and efficacy in treating leg cramps, particularly in specific populations.
According to user reviews, many individuals have reported significant improvements in their symptoms after starting magnesium supplementation, particularly in relation to muscle cramps. Users frequently mention a complete eradication of leg cramps after incorporating magnesium into their routines. One user highlights that after switching from various products to magnesium citrate, they no longer experience cramps, stating "NO MORE CRAMPS" as evidence of the supplement's effectiveness Read Review. Another reviewer notes their nightly intake leading to a "cramp-free" experience, showcasing how consistent use can lead to desired results Read Review.
Other users have described the supplement as instrumental in preventing muscle cramps caused by intense physical activity, reiterating its effectiveness in diverse situations Read Review. A common theme across various reviews is the noticeable reduction in cramping within a short timeframe after implementation, with one user crediting the supplement for significantly decreasing nighttime leg cramps Read Review. While individual results may vary, many find that regular magnesium supplementation contributes positively to their symptom management.
According to user reviews, many individuals have combined magnesium supplements with other nutrients or strategies to achieve relief from leg cramps. For instance, one reviewer mentioned that they tried potassium supplements but found no success until they discovered their magnesium deficiency. They emphasized that it was magnesium citrate that truly alleviated their cramps Read Review. This suggests that while some users experiment with various combinations of supplements, magnesium often emerges as the most effective solution.
Additionally, a reviewer noted that maintaining warmth in the legs, combined with magnesium supplementation, significantly helped with their cramping issues Read Review. Overall, it appears that while magnesium is a crucial component for many in managing leg cramps, some users also explore other avenues such as dietary adjustments or complementary nutrients as part of their comprehensive approach.
Based on user reviews, it seems that the effective dosage of magnesium for treating leg cramps varies, but many users report success when taking either one or two doses per day. One user experiences complete relief from cramps by taking two pills every night before bed, stating it has made them cramp-free Read Review. Another reviewer highlights the importance of magnesium's absorption potential by opting for a liquid magnesium citrate, which they found especially effective, and recommend keeping legs warm alongside supplement use Read Review.
Several individuals, including a registered dietician’s endorsement, also point out the importance of finding the right brand based on absorption quality, suggesting that individual needs may determine the optimal dosage Read Review. In general, users recommend experimenting with different forms and doses of magnesium, with many reporting significant reductions in cramps, particularly when consistent daily use is maintained Read Review.
10
No more cramps
3 people found this helpful
The best magnesium! I suffer from cramps in my feet and calves. I tried everything, including potassium, which didn’t work. I then discovered it was a magnesium deficiency. After trying several magnesium supplements, I found this liquid magnesium citrate, which absorbs better. The best part isn't the price, but the result: NO MORE CRAMPS. If you struggle with leg cramps, I suggest two things: keep your legs warm and use this supplement.
10
Old lady remedy
Horse pills but worth it! Perfect for managing my leg cramps. I take two every night before bed, and I am cramp-free.
9
Significant decrease
Recommended by my daughter, I used to experience cramps in my legs while sleeping. My daughter suggested magnesium to reduce cramps, and it's true; the number of cramps has decreased significantly, making me much more comfortable.
9
Active lifestyle
This one keeps me from getting muscle cramps, even after a day filled with a LOT of exercise.
7.5
Effective product
Reliable review: My girlfriend, a registered dietician, noted that Nature Made came out on top in independent tests. I previously tried other brands that provided some relief for cramping (both liquid and pills), but this product works better, and I'm sold on it.
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.
2
Magnesium ineffective for leg cramps
Effect of oral magnesium supplementation for relieving leg cramps during pregnancy: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.
We examined the effectiveness of magnesium supplements in reducing leg cramps during pregnancy, a common issue that affects up to half of pregnant women. Four randomized controlled trials were included in our analysis, with a total of 332 participants, which compared magnesium treatment to a placebo.
Our findings showed that magnesium supplementation did not significantly decrease the frequency of leg cramps compared to the control group. The weighted mean difference was -0.47, which indicates that while there may be a slight improvement, it was not considered statistically meaningful.
Moreover, magnesium did not help women recover from leg cramps more effectively than the placebo, and there were no significant side effects reported. Overall, we found that oral magnesium supplementation is not effective in treating leg cramps during pregnancy.
We evaluated the effectiveness of magnesium supplements in preventing leg cramps, a common issue especially for older adults and pregnant women. Our focus was on randomized controlled trials that compared magnesium to placebos or other treatments.
After analyzing data from 11 trials involving a total of 735 participants, we found that magnesium supplementation showed little to no significant benefit. For older adults suffering from idiopathic leg cramps, the differences in cramp frequency, intensity, and duration were minimal and not statistically significant. In one trial focused on pregnant women, the results were mixed and not conclusive.
Additionally, while some participants did report minor gastrointestinal side effects from magnesium, major adverse events were not significantly different from those who received placebo. This leads us to conclude that magnesium may not provide meaningful relief for most older adults experiencing leg cramps. For pregnant women, further studies are necessary to determine if magnesium could be effective.
Overall, the evidence suggests that more research is needed to clarify magnesium's role, especially in specific populations like pregnant women who experience cramps.
We explored how magnesium might help alleviate leg cramps during pregnancy through a systematic review of six randomized controlled trials, involving 390 women in total. These studies compared magnesium with placebo or no treatment to see if it could reduce the frequency and intensity of these cramps.
Interestingly, the results showed mixed outcomes. While some trials indicated a slight reduction in the number of leg cramps after magnesium treatment, it wasn't consistent across the board. For example, one trial noted that magnesium could lead to a 50% reduction in cramps, while others found no significant difference compared to placebo.
We also observed that the overall quality of the evidence was low, mainly due to small sample sizes and design limitations. The studies did not comprehensively assess the safety of magnesium either, as side effects were only reported for magnesium versus placebo. Additionally, it was worth noting that other interventions like calcium and vitamin B were also tested but did not show a clear advantage over magnesium.
In conclusion, our findings leave us with an unclear picture of magnesium's effectiveness against leg cramps in pregnant women. For a more definitive answer, more rigorous studies are warranted, especially those exploring different methodologies, including non-drug therapies.
2
Magnesium does not reduce leg cramps
Oral magnesium supplementation for leg cramps in pregnancy-An observational controlled trial.
We investigated the effectiveness of oral magnesium supplementation in reducing leg cramps among pregnant women. In a controlled clinical trial with 132 participants, we compared the impact of 300 mg/day of magnesium citrate against a placebo.
Most participants experienced multiple leg cramps each week, and after four weeks, we recorded a notable reduction in leg cramps overall—28.4% across all women. However, when looking closely, we found no significant difference between the magnesium group and the placebo group. The placebo group even reported a slightly higher percentage of reduction in cramps (32.8% versus 27.2% for magnesium).
We also looked at the side effects and found that four women reported mild gastrointestinal issues, but these were not serious. Overall, the results suggest that oral magnesium supplementation does not significantly improve leg cramps during pregnancy, raising questions about its effectiveness for this purpose.
References
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. 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. 10.1016/j.tjog.2021.05.006
Luo L, Zhou K, Zhang J, Xu L, Yin W. Interventions for leg cramps in pregnancy. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2020;12:CD010655. 10.1002/14651858.CD010655.pub3
Garrison SR, Korownyk CS, Kolber MR, Allan GM, Musini VM, et al. Magnesium for skeletal muscle cramps. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2020;9:CD009402. 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. 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. 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. 10.1001/jamainternmed.2016.9261
Zhou K, West HM, Zhang J, Xu L, Li W. Interventions for leg cramps in pregnancy. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2015. 10.1002/14651858.CD010655.pub2
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. 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. 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. 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. 10.1093/gerona/glq232
Uña E. Atypical presentation of acute neurotoxicity secondary to oxaliplatin. J Oncol Pharm Pract. 2010;16:280. 10.1177/1078155209355849
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.
Young GL, Jewell D. Interventions for leg cramps in pregnancy. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2002.
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.