5/14/2025
Last update
5/14/2025
Reviewed By
Overview
SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Likely Ineffective
Based on 17 Researches
4.8
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 41 Reviews
8.3
Supplement Facts
Serving Size: 1 Capsule
Amount Per Serving
%DV
Magnesium(from 513 mg Buffered Magnesium Glycinate Chelate Complex [Magnesium Oxide and Magnesium Bisglycinate])
200 mg
48%
Magnesium-Rich Plants BlendOrganic Spinach LeafOrganic Chard LeafOrganic Okra FruitOrganic Quinoa Grain (Chenopodium quinoa)Organic Black Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris)Organic Pumpkin SeedOrganic Sunflower SeedOrganic Flaxseed
30 mg
**
Top Medical Research Studies
9
Magnesium oxide treats 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.
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
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.
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
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.
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.
Read More
Most Useful Reviews
9
Improved leg cramps
238 people found this helpful
I take this drug as part of a complex therapy for the treatment of insulin resistance and estrogen dominance, aiming to rectify uterine myoma with my doctor. Magnesium is crucial in my daily intake. Following its use, my bowel movements improved dramatically, becoming calmer and smoother, as if leg cramps had vanished. The glycinate form is perfect for addressing the nervous system. I highly recommend it!
Read More
10
No more cramps
12 people found this helpful
This is my favourite magnesium! I find it very effective. Magnesium glycinate has a calming effect that I can attest to. During my second pregnancy, I've forgotten about leg cramps. I take it 1.5 hours before bed alongside calcium. I appreciate the capsule format; it's much easier to swallow compared to pills. I'm thrilled to return to Naturelo for the third time!
Read More
7.5
Fewer muscle cramps
10 people found this helpful
GREAT PRODUCT! Feeling much better!! I've been experiencing many muscle cramps in my lower legs and feet, particularly at night, which has been awful. Since taking this supplement, my muscle cramps have diminished. I realised I wasn’t getting enough magnesium from my diet alone. A nice side benefit is that taking it before bed relaxes me, thereby helping me sleep better.
Read More
Medical Researches
SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Likely Ineffective
Based on 17 Researches
4.8
- All Researches
9.5
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.
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.
Read More
9
Magnesium oxide treats 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.
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
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.
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
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.
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.
Read More
7
Magnesium shows potential benefits
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.
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.
Read More
User Reviews
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 41 Reviews
8.3
- All Reviews
- Positive Reviews
- Negative Reviews
9
Improved leg cramps
238 people found this helpful
I take this drug as part of a complex therapy for the treatment of insulin resistance and estrogen dominance, aiming to rectify uterine myoma with my doctor. Magnesium is crucial in my daily intake. Following its use, my bowel movements improved dramatically, becoming calmer and smoother, as if leg cramps had vanished. The glycinate form is perfect for addressing the nervous system. I highly recommend it!
Read More
10
No more cramps
12 people found this helpful
This is my favourite magnesium! I find it very effective. Magnesium glycinate has a calming effect that I can attest to. During my second pregnancy, I've forgotten about leg cramps. I take it 1.5 hours before bed alongside calcium. I appreciate the capsule format; it's much easier to swallow compared to pills. I'm thrilled to return to Naturelo for the third time!
Read More
7.5
Fewer muscle cramps
10 people found this helpful
GREAT PRODUCT! Feeling much better!! I've been experiencing many muscle cramps in my lower legs and feet, particularly at night, which has been awful. Since taking this supplement, my muscle cramps have diminished. I realised I wasn’t getting enough magnesium from my diet alone. A nice side benefit is that taking it before bed relaxes me, thereby helping me sleep better.
Read More
9
Leg cramps reduced
9 people found this helpful
I don't know about absorbency. My leg cramps are almost non-existent since I began taking this product.
Read More
9
Leg cramps relief
7 people found this helpful
Magnificent Magnesium! True, it tastes awful, but it's just for a few seconds. My husband suffered from leg cramps, which have now vanished after several weeks of magnesium use. We take it at night, and our sleep has improved! I order it twice; it was out of stock for some time, but I made sure to grab two packs when it became available.
Read More
Frequently Asked Questions
9
Leg cramps stopped
5 people found this helpful
With summer, I began running lengthy 20 km workouts, which caused awful night cramps. After consulting a sports doctor, I tried this chelated magnesium. The first week brought no change, but after 7 days, my leg cramps stopped, and I now sleep through the night! I highly recommend it!
9
Cramps stopped
Previously, I experienced nocturnal cramps in my calves, but after a week of taking this, they have stopped entirely!
7.5
Fewer muscle cramps
10 people found this helpful
GREAT PRODUCT! Feeling much better!! I've been experiencing many muscle cramps in my lower legs and feet, particularly at night, which has been awful. Since taking this supplement, my muscle cramps have diminished. I realised I wasn’t getting enough magnesium from my diet alone. A nice side benefit is that taking it before bed relaxes me, thereby helping me sleep better.
9
Foot cramps eased
2 people found this helpful
At night, I experienced leg cramps, but after taking this magnesium, they ceased completely.
9
Effective for menstruation
1 people found this helpful
Good magnesium at an excellent dosage. It is easy to ingest without side effects. I took it to lessen cramps during menstruation, and it works exceptionally well! The composition is pure, with no sweeteners or unnecessary additives. Recommend!
6
Sleep quality improved
This magnesium effectively helps with leg cramps when taken an hour before bedtime, leading to improved sleep quality.
7.5
Sleep improvement
It assists in falling asleep and ensures good sleep at night, reducing leg cramps and enhancing my sleep pattern.
10
No more cramps
12 people found this helpful
This is my favourite magnesium! I find it very effective. Magnesium glycinate has a calming effect that I can attest to. During my second pregnancy, I've forgotten about leg cramps. I take it 1.5 hours before bed alongside calcium. I appreciate the capsule format; it's much easier to swallow compared to pills. I'm thrilled to return to Naturelo for the third time!
10
Sound sleep achieved
5 people found this helpful
This natural magnesium is the best, easy to digest. I take it after dinner with zinc for better absorption. It has a cumulative effect; I sleep deeply, needing only 6-7 hours, and wake up without an alarm. Additionally, I've stopped experiencing leg cramps at night.
7.5
Cramps subsided
1 people found this helpful
High-quality magnesium; for me, it's the best on the site with no gastrointestinal issues. After recovering from Covid, I had various problems, including leg cramps and sleep disturbances. Following a monthly course with vitamin B6 from Solgar, my leg cramps subsided, anxiety diminished, and my menstruation became regular again. I didn’t change anything else, so I attribute the improvement solely to this vitamin. I take 2 capsules before bed. Though expensive, I’d rather invest in something effective than settle for a placebo.
10
Deep sleep assured
1 people found this helpful
I’ve been taking 200 mg a day since it arrived. It helps me relax and achieve deeper sleep, and I've noticed no more leg cramps or headaches. It's made a marked difference in my overall well-being.
9
Improved leg cramps
238 people found this helpful
I take this drug as part of a complex therapy for the treatment of insulin resistance and estrogen dominance, aiming to rectify uterine myoma with my doctor. Magnesium is crucial in my daily intake. Following its use, my bowel movements improved dramatically, becoming calmer and smoother, as if leg cramps had vanished. The glycinate form is perfect for addressing the nervous system. I highly recommend it!
9
Magnesium oxide treats 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.
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
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.
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.
2
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.
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.
4
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.
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.
3
We examined the effectiveness of magnesium supplementation for preventing skeletal muscle cramps through a systematic review of several studies. Seven trials involving a total of 406 participants were included, with some studies focusing on women experiencing leg cramps during pregnancy and others on adults with idiopathic cramps.
Overall, we found that magnesium supplementation did not offer a significant benefit in reducing the frequency or intensity of cramps for older adults. The data on idiopathic cramps showed only minor changes that weren’t statistically significant. Specifically, the difference in the number of cramps per week between magnesium and placebo groups was negligible, suggesting that it may not provide any clinically meaningful relief.
For pregnant women experiencing leg cramps, the results were mixed, indicating a need for further research. It’s clear from the trials that magnesium might not be the miracle solution that many hope for when it comes to leg cramps. We also noted that any side effects reported were similar to those seen with placebo, reinforcing the idea that magnesium poses little risk.
Overall, we found that magnesium supplementation did not offer a significant benefit in reducing the frequency or intensity of cramps for older adults. The data on idiopathic cramps showed only minor changes that weren’t statistically significant. Specifically, the difference in the number of cramps per week between magnesium and placebo groups was negligible, suggesting that it may not provide any clinically meaningful relief.
For pregnant women experiencing leg cramps, the results were mixed, indicating a need for further research. It’s clear from the trials that magnesium might not be the miracle solution that many hope for when it comes to leg cramps. We also noted that any side effects reported were similar to those seen with placebo, reinforcing the idea that magnesium poses little risk.
2
No significant magnesium effect observed
We analyzed the effectiveness of magnesium in treating nocturnal leg cramps through a well-designed study involving a crossover randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial. In this trial, conducted in Buenos Aires, participants who experienced at least six cramps in the previous month were included.
After an initial washout period with a placebo, 45 eligible individuals were randomly assigned to receive either 900 mg of magnesium citrate twice daily or a placebo for one month, followed by the opposite treatment after another washout.
Our findings were clear: magnesium did not show significant benefits in reducing the number of leg cramps compared to the placebo. In fact, the average number of cramps per participant was similar—11.1 for placebo versus 11.8 for magnesium—indicating that magnesium was not effective in this scenario.
We also noted a period-effect bias, where all participants reported some improvement over time, regardless of whether they received magnesium or placebo. This suggests that factors other than the treatment might be at play, such as the natural progression of leg cramps or a placebo effect.
After an initial washout period with a placebo, 45 eligible individuals were randomly assigned to receive either 900 mg of magnesium citrate twice daily or a placebo for one month, followed by the opposite treatment after another washout.
Our findings were clear: magnesium did not show significant benefits in reducing the number of leg cramps compared to the placebo. In fact, the average number of cramps per participant was similar—11.1 for placebo versus 11.8 for magnesium—indicating that magnesium was not effective in this scenario.
We also noted a period-effect bias, where all participants reported some improvement over time, regardless of whether they received magnesium or placebo. This suggests that factors other than the treatment might be at play, such as the natural progression of leg cramps or a placebo effect.
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.
