Overview
SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Likely Ineffective
Based on 17 Researches
4.8
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 51 Reviews
8.8
Supplement Facts
Serving Size: 2 Tablets
Serving Per Container: 30
Amount Per Serving
%DV
Magnesium (as magnesium citrate)
400 mg
95%
Sodium
10 mg
<1%
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
10
Disappeared cramps
117 people found this helpful
Citrate is one of the best forms of magnesium, well absorbed, with a slight laxative effect. My night cramps disappeared when taken, and my condition significantly improved, especially during stressful situations. I will definitely repeat the course as I am very pleased with the result.
Read More
10
Cramps eliminated
54 people found this helpful
My husband suffered from severe leg cramps for years while taking magnesium oxide, which helped little. Since switching to Solgar’s magnesium citrate, his cramps have completely vanished. Initially hesitant about GI side effects, we have seen none. He's on 200 mg twice a day, and I too have benefited; my irregular heartbeats are nearly gone.
Read More
10
Calms nerves
24 people found this helpful
My favourite magnesium for constipation and cramps during breastfeeding. It calms my nerves and helps with bowel movements. During pregnancy, I suffered from leg cramps, but a good dose of magnesium made them disappear immediately.
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 51 Reviews
8.8
- All Reviews
- Positive Reviews
- Negative Reviews
10
Disappeared cramps
117 people found this helpful
Citrate is one of the best forms of magnesium, well absorbed, with a slight laxative effect. My night cramps disappeared when taken, and my condition significantly improved, especially during stressful situations. I will definitely repeat the course as I am very pleased with the result.
Read More
10
Cramps eliminated
54 people found this helpful
My husband suffered from severe leg cramps for years while taking magnesium oxide, which helped little. Since switching to Solgar’s magnesium citrate, his cramps have completely vanished. Initially hesitant about GI side effects, we have seen none. He's on 200 mg twice a day, and I too have benefited; my irregular heartbeats are nearly gone.
Read More
10
Calms nerves
24 people found this helpful
My favourite magnesium for constipation and cramps during breastfeeding. It calms my nerves and helps with bowel movements. During pregnancy, I suffered from leg cramps, but a good dose of magnesium made them disappear immediately.
Read More
9
Decreased cramps
12 people found this helpful
Solgar Magnesium Citrate is well absorbed without causing side effects. My calf muscle cramps have notably decreased, and I feel calmer and enjoy improved sleep. If this review was helpful, please give it a thumbs up. Thank you! ☺️
Read More
9
Energizing effects
9 people found this helpful
Excellent! I recommend it! After switching from other magnesium forms to this brand, I’ve noticed significant improvements. My cramps have disappeared, I rest well, wake up recharged, and I feel less fatigued and more motivated. Results surfaced within weeks. If this comment helped, please like it. Thank you!
Read More
Frequently Asked Questions
9
No convulsions
5 people found this helpful
No cramps, no heaviness in my legs! This magnesium preparation, prescribed for my calf muscle cramps, has improved my physical activity considerably within three days. It’s cost-effective, providing 60 tablets for just 1000 rubles.
9
Energizing effects
9 people found this helpful
Excellent! I recommend it! After switching from other magnesium forms to this brand, I’ve noticed significant improvements. My cramps have disappeared, I rest well, wake up recharged, and I feel less fatigued and more motivated. Results surfaced within weeks. If this comment helped, please like it. Thank you!
9
Quality of life
6 people found this helpful
This drug was prescribed by an endocrinologist due to poor blood test results and personal complaints. I didn't see quick results, but after 1.5 months, shortness of breath improved, and I could easily climb staircases without stopping. Leg cramps ceased, and my efficiency increased. Previously, I preferred lying on the couch; now I'm active at work. The doctor advised taking magnesium citrate for six months, so I will order more. Cheers to good health!
10
Disappeared cramps
117 people found this helpful
Citrate is one of the best forms of magnesium, well absorbed, with a slight laxative effect. My night cramps disappeared when taken, and my condition significantly improved, especially during stressful situations. I will definitely repeat the course as I am very pleased with the result.
9
Decreased cramps
12 people found this helpful
Solgar Magnesium Citrate is well absorbed without causing side effects. My calf muscle cramps have notably decreased, and I feel calmer and enjoy improved sleep. If this review was helpful, please give it a thumbs up. Thank you! ☺️
9
Quality ingredients
1 people found this helpful
This magnesium product costs significantly more in Europe but is essential for muscle issues. We often get leg cramps during fasting, and this solution has effectively eliminated them. The quality of the ingredients is impressive.
9
Doctor-recommended
8 people found this helpful
I take two tablets each night as prescribed. This is my second purchase, and I find it soothes my leg muscles, alleviating cramps and promoting regularity. Although the tablets are large, they are easy to swallow, and the packaging is excellent, with glass jars wrapped in bubble wrap.
7.5
Improves relaxation
1 people found this helpful
I've been using Solgar Magnesium Citrate for a few months and am thoroughly impressed with its quality and effectiveness. The tablets are easy to swallow and taste pleasant. I’ve noticed improved muscle relaxation and fewer leg cramps, particularly after workouts. It promotes better sleep quality, making me feel more rested in the mornings. Solgar uses high-quality, non-GMO ingredients, which I appreciate. I highly recommend it for reliable magnesium supplementation.
9
Cramps decreased significantly
1 people found this helpful
This product really works. I began experiencing leg cramps, first at night and then during the day. After researching, I decided to try magnesium citrate. Remarkably, after just a couple of doses, the sensation of cramping began to diminish. This is not mere suggestion; it’s a clear outcome from using Solgar.
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.
3
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.
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.
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.
4
We explored the effectiveness of magnesium therapy for treating nocturnal leg cramps (NLC) by reviewing various randomized controlled trials. In total, we found seven studies involving 361 participants, all comparing magnesium treatment to a placebo.
Interestingly, while magnesium didn’t show significant benefits for the general population, we discovered a slight positive effect among pregnant women. The difference noted in leg cramps per week between those who received magnesium and those on a placebo was modest, suggesting that while some individuals might benefit, magnesium may not be a powerful solution for everyone.
We also noted that gastrointestinal side effects were slightly more common in those taking magnesium compared to the placebo group. However, the overall strength of the evidence is weak, primarily due to small sample sizes and short follow-up periods in the studies. This indicates that we need more robust research to fully understand magnesium's impact on leg cramps.
Interestingly, while magnesium didn’t show significant benefits for the general population, we discovered a slight positive effect among pregnant women. The difference noted in leg cramps per week between those who received magnesium and those on a placebo was modest, suggesting that while some individuals might benefit, magnesium may not be a powerful solution for everyone.
We also noted that gastrointestinal side effects were slightly more common in those taking magnesium compared to the placebo group. However, the overall strength of the evidence is weak, primarily due to small sample sizes and short follow-up periods in the studies. This indicates that we need more robust research to fully understand magnesium's impact on leg cramps.
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.
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. doi:10.1186/s12937-021-00747-9
- Liu J, Song G, Zhao G, Meng T. Effect of oral magnesium supplementation for relieving leg cramps during pregnancy: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Taiwan J Obstet Gynecol. 2021;60:609. doi:10.1016/j.tjog.2021.05.006
- Luo L, Zhou K, Zhang J, Xu L, Yin W. Interventions for leg cramps in pregnancy. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2020;12:CD010655. doi:10.1002/14651858.CD010655.pub3
- Garrison SR, Korownyk CS, Kolber MR, Allan GM, Musini VM, et al. Magnesium for skeletal muscle cramps. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2020;9:CD009402. doi:10.1002/14651858.CD009402.pub3
- Araújo CAL, Lorena SB, Cavalcanti GCS, Leão GLS, Tenório GP, et al. Oral magnesium supplementation for leg cramps in pregnancy-An observational controlled trial. PLoS One. 2020;15:e0227497. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0227497
- Sebo P, Haller D, Cerutti B, Maisonneuve H. A prospective observational study of the main features of nocturnal leg cramps in primary care. Swiss Med Wkly. 2019;149:w20048. doi:10.4414/smw.2019.20048
- Roguin Maor N, Alperin M, Shturman E, Khairaldeen H, Friedman M, et al. Effect of Magnesium Oxide Supplementation on Nocturnal Leg Cramps: A Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA Intern Med. 2017;177:617. doi:10.1001/jamainternmed.2016.9261
- Zhou K, West HM, Zhang J, Xu L, Li W. Interventions for leg cramps in pregnancy. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2015. doi:10.1002/14651858.CD010655.pub2
- Sebo P, Cerutti B, Haller DM. Effect of magnesium therapy on nocturnal leg cramps: a systematic review of randomized controlled trials with meta-analysis using simulations. Fam Pract. 2014;31:7. doi:10.1093/fampra/cmt065
- Garrison SR, Allan GM, Sekhon RK, Musini VM, Khan KM. Magnesium for skeletal muscle cramps. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2012;2012:CD009402. doi:10.1002/14651858.CD009402.pub2
- Supakatisant C, Phupong V. Oral magnesium for relief in pregnancy-induced leg cramps: a randomised controlled trial. Matern Child Nutr. 2015;11:139. doi:10.1111/j.1740-8709.2012.00440.x
- Garrison SR, Birmingham CL, Koehler BE, McCollom RA, Khan KM. The effect of magnesium infusion on rest cramps: randomized controlled trial. J Gerontol A Biol Sci Med Sci. 2011;66:661. doi:10.1093/gerona/glq232
- Uña E. Atypical presentation of acute neurotoxicity secondary to oxaliplatin. J Oncol Pharm Pract. 2010;16:280. doi: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.
