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
10
No more cramps
1 people found this helpful
It works! I bought these vitamins for my husband, who had calf cramps at night. After a few days of taking them, everything cleared up. They also positively affect the nervous system and should be taken at night. The vitamins are of excellent quality, with no taste or aftertaste, and come in a standard-size capsule. I recommend them for anyone wanting to eliminate night cramps or restore their nervous system.
Read More
9
Preventive effects
These are easy to swallow, and I have noticed an effect. I may not know much about testosterone, but these elements are crucial for prevention. My legs were cramping, especially after cycling, but after just one day of taking them, the cramps disappeared.
Read More
9
Faster recovery
It's excellent for active individuals! It aids my recovery after gym sessions, significantly reducing my leg cramps and allowing me to recover much faster than before I started using it. I highly recommend this product.
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.
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
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 works! I bought these vitamins for my husband, who had calf cramps at night. After a few days of taking them, everything cleared up. They also positively affect the nervous system and should be taken at night. The vitamins are of excellent quality, with no taste or aftertaste, and come in a standard-size capsule. I recommend them for anyone wanting to eliminate night cramps or restore their nervous system.
Read More
9
Preventive effects
These are easy to swallow, and I have noticed an effect. I may not know much about testosterone, but these elements are crucial for prevention. My legs were cramping, especially after cycling, but after just one day of taking them, the cramps disappeared.
Read More
9
Faster recovery
It's excellent for active individuals! It aids my recovery after gym sessions, significantly reducing my leg cramps and allowing me to recover much faster than before I started using it. I highly recommend this product.
Read More
7.5
Night cramps helped
1 people found this helpful
This is a great drug! I often take it, and not only does it improve my skin condition, but it also helps me combat night cramps, which I understand all too well. I highly recommend it!
Read More
7.5
Tension reduction
This is a fantastic post-workout formula that effectively reduces muscle tension and cramps.
Read More
Frequently Asked Questions
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.
Zinc Magnesium Aspartate, often referred to as ZMA, is a dietary supplement that combines three key ingredients: zinc, magnesium, and aspartic acid. This supplement is primarily marketed towards athletes and those looking to enhance their physical performance, as the components of ZMA are believed to support muscle recovery, improve sleep quality, and potentially boost testosterone levels. Zinc plays a crucial role in hormone production and immune function, while magnesium is essential for muscle relaxation and energy production. Aspartic acid, an amino acid, is thought to aid in the absorption of these minerals and may also support testosterone synthesis.
Many users report increased energy levels, improved sleep, and enhanced recovery from workouts when taking ZMA, making it a popular choice among fitness enthusiasts. However, scientific research on the effectiveness of ZMA is mixed. While some studies suggest benefits in testosterone levels and overall athletic performance, others show little to no significant impact. It's important to note that, like any supplement, individual responses can vary widely. If you're considering adding Zinc Magnesium Aspartate to your routine, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional to ensure it's appropriate for your specific health needs and fitness goals.
According to user reviews, the timeline for experiencing results from this supplement for leg cramps varies. Some users have reported noticeable improvements in just one day of use. For instance, one reviewer mentioned that their leg cramps disappeared after taking the supplement for only a day, highlighting its quick effectiveness Read Review. Another user observed significant relief after only a few days, suggesting that this product can work relatively quickly for many users Read Review.
However, while immediate results are possible for some, individual experiences may vary based on factors such as frequency of cramps, activity levels, and personal responsiveness to the supplement. Others have indicated longer-term benefits, where the supplement aids in recovery from workouts and reduces muscle tension over a more extended period, which may imply a cumulative effect Read Review. Overall, if you're considering this supplement for leg cramps, many users advocate for its effectiveness both short-term and in promoting overall muscle recovery.
Magnesium supplements have been investigated for their effectiveness in treating leg cramps, particularly in different populations such as older adults and pregnant women. Research indicates mixed results. For instance, one study focusing on nocturnal leg cramps (NLC) found that magnesium oxide monohydrate (MOMH) improved symptoms in participants, establishing it as both effective and safe for managing NLC [1]. Conversely, several studies examining magnesium supplementation for leg cramps during pregnancy found minimal to no significant benefits compared to a placebo, highlighting that while some minor improvements were noted, they were not statistically meaningful [2], [5].
In general, the evidence suggests that while magnesium might provide some relief for certain individuals suffering from leg cramps, its overall efficacy is still questionable and requires further exploration. A review of multiple trials indicated that magnesium didn’t show substantial benefits in reducing the frequency or intensity of cramps, especially for older adults, and the data on pregnant women remained inconsistent [2], [10]. Thus, while magnesium may hold promise for some, a definitive conclusion on its wide-scale effectiveness for leg cramps remains elusive, calling for more rigorous research in the future.
Users have reported a range of improvements in symptoms after using this supplement for leg cramps and overall muscle recovery. Many individuals have experienced rapid relief from nighttime cramps, with one reviewer stating that their husband's leg cramps cleared up within just a few days of starting the supplement Read Review. Another user highlighted that after only one day of use, their cycling-related cramps had vanished completely, underscoring the product's potential for quick action Read Review.
In addition to alleviating cramps, users have noted significant benefits for muscle recovery post-workout. It has been described as excellent for active individuals, facilitating faster recovery and reducing muscle tension after gym sessions Read Review. Furthermore, other reviews emphasize that the product not only addresses cramps but also contributes to overall well-being, including improvements in skin condition and nervous system support Read Review. While these anecdotal experiences suggest that the supplement works well for many, it is essential to remember that individual results can vary.
According to user reviews, Zinc Magnesium Aspartate has been reported to significantly alleviate leg cramps, especially when taken consistently. Users highlight the product's efficacy in reducing nighttime calf cramps and muscle tension, suggesting it serves as an excellent supplement for active individuals or those experiencing discomfort after physical activities. For instance, one reviewer noted that their husband's night cramps vanished after just a few days of use, indicating the positive impact of this supplement on leg health and recovery Read Review.
Another user experienced relief from leg cramps after only one day, which emphasizes the supplement's quick action. Several reviewers recommend taking the capsules at night for optimal results, particularly for those dealing with nighttime cramping Read Review. Overall, users report a consensus that consistent use of Zinc Magnesium Aspartate not only aids recovery after workouts but also enhances overall well-being by reducing occurrences of leg cramps Read Review.
9
Preventive effects
These are easy to swallow, and I have noticed an effect. I may not know much about testosterone, but these elements are crucial for prevention. My legs were cramping, especially after cycling, but after just one day of taking them, the cramps disappeared.
10
No more cramps
1 people found this helpful
It works! I bought these vitamins for my husband, who had calf cramps at night. After a few days of taking them, everything cleared up. They also positively affect the nervous system and should be taken at night. The vitamins are of excellent quality, with no taste or aftertaste, and come in a standard-size capsule. I recommend them for anyone wanting to eliminate night cramps or restore their nervous system.
9
Faster recovery
It's excellent for active individuals! It aids my recovery after gym sessions, significantly reducing my leg cramps and allowing me to recover much faster than before I started using it. I highly recommend this product.
7.5
Night cramps helped
1 people found this helpful
This is a great drug! I often take it, and not only does it improve my skin condition, but it also helps me combat night cramps, which I understand all too well. I highly recommend 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.
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.
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.
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.