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.
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9
Magnesium reduces pregnancy leg cramps
Oral magnesium for relief in pregnancy-induced leg cramps: a randomised controlled trial.
We sought to understand the effectiveness of oral magnesium in treating leg cramps experienced by pregnant women. Our study was well-structured, involving a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled design. It included 86 healthy pregnant women between 14 to 34 weeks of gestation who encountered leg cramps at least twice a week, and we followed them over a four-week period.
At the end of the study, we discovered that the women taking magnesium bisglycinate chelate (300 mg per day) reported a significant reduction in cramp frequency—86% experienced at least a 50% drop compared to only 60.5% of those taking the placebo. Additionally, those on magnesium also noted a notable decrease in cramp intensity, with 69.8% achieving a similar improvement versus just 48.8% in the placebo group.
Encouragingly, we found no major side effects reported in either group, such as nausea or diarrhea. Our findings suggest that magnesium supplements can effectively reduce both the frequency and severity of leg cramps during pregnancy, offering a potential treatment option for women dealing with this common issue.
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7
Magnesium's potential against cramps
Randomised, cross-over, placebo controlled trial of magnesium citrate in the treatment of chronic persistent leg cramps.
We set out to investigate whether magnesium citrate could be an effective remedy for those who experience bothersome leg cramps, particularly at night. In our study, we used a randomised, double-blind, cross-over, placebo-controlled design to ensure reliable results. Participants suffering from regular leg cramps were recruited and given either magnesium citrate or a matching placebo over six weeks.
Our findings revealed that those who began the trial with the placebo experienced an average reduction in cramps when taking magnesium, with a median of 5 cramps compared to 9 on the placebo. Moreover, a notable percentage of participants felt that the magnesium treatment had indeed helped them, with 78% reporting benefits, as opposed to 54% who felt the placebo was effective.
While these results suggest that magnesium may have a positive impact, it’s essential to mention that the impact on cramp severity and duration wasn’t significantly different between the two groups. Additionally, some participants did report experiencing diarrhoea as a side effect of magnesium. Overall, we believe magnesium shows promise in alleviating nocturnal leg cramps and recommend further research to fully evaluate its effectiveness.
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Most Useful Reviews
9
Improved sleep, cramps eased
381 people found this helpful
I made up for the magnesium deficiency and began to sleep peacefully. It helped a lot with leg cramps; I recommend it!👍
Read More
9
Cramps managed
101 people found this helpful
The best combination of magnesium! Solgar has not disappointed once again! It works remarkably well—magnesium has helped me effectively manage my leg cramps!
Read More
9
Overall calmness restored
80 people found this helpful
After 4 months of taking these pills, I can confidently say I have regained my peace of mind. I’m less reactive to irritations, and the leg cramps I had been experiencing have also disappeared, which was an unexpected bonus from this supplement.
We explored the effects of magnesium treatment in a unique case involving a 62-year-old woman with stage IV colon cancer undergoing oxaliplatin therapy. Shortly after her first infusion, we observed that she experienced significant neurological symptoms, including right hemibody paresthesia, muscle cramping in her right calf, and dysphonia.
To address these symptoms, she was administered intravenous magnesium sulfate along with calcium gluconate. Remarkably, within three hours, all her symptoms resolved. While this case suggests that magnesium can provide relief from cramps and other neurological side effects, it is important to note that magnesium was used in conjunction with other medications, making it challenging to assess its isolated effectiveness.
For future doses, the oxaliplatin was adjusted by reducing the dose and extending the infusion duration, which minimized her symptoms to occasional mild paresthesia. In summary, while magnesium showed promise in this case, further research is needed to determine its specific impact on leg cramps in a clearer, more controlled manner.
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9
Magnesium oxide treats leg cramps
A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicenter study assessing the efficacy of magnesium oxide monohydrate in the treatment of nocturnal leg cramps.
We conducted a study to evaluate how effective magnesium oxide monohydrate (MOMH) is in treating nocturnal leg cramps (NLC). This was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial involving multiple centers in Ukraine, where participants took either MOMH or a placebo nightly for 60 days.
Our focus was on measuring the frequency and duration of cramps, the pain they caused, and how they affected sleep quality and overall life satisfaction. We used thorough statistical methods to compare the results between the two groups.
The findings indicated that MOMH is both effective and safe for individuals dealing with NLC. Participants reported improvements in their symptoms, demonstrating that this magnesium supplement can play a helpful role in managing nocturnal leg cramps.
Read More
9
Magnesium reduces pregnancy leg cramps
Oral magnesium for relief in pregnancy-induced leg cramps: a randomised controlled trial.
We sought to understand the effectiveness of oral magnesium in treating leg cramps experienced by pregnant women. Our study was well-structured, involving a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled design. It included 86 healthy pregnant women between 14 to 34 weeks of gestation who encountered leg cramps at least twice a week, and we followed them over a four-week period.
At the end of the study, we discovered that the women taking magnesium bisglycinate chelate (300 mg per day) reported a significant reduction in cramp frequency—86% experienced at least a 50% drop compared to only 60.5% of those taking the placebo. Additionally, those on magnesium also noted a notable decrease in cramp intensity, with 69.8% achieving a similar improvement versus just 48.8% in the placebo group.
Encouragingly, we found no major side effects reported in either group, such as nausea or diarrhea. Our findings suggest that magnesium supplements can effectively reduce both the frequency and severity of leg cramps during pregnancy, offering a potential treatment option for women dealing with this common issue.
Read More
7
Magnesium's potential against cramps
Randomised, cross-over, placebo controlled trial of magnesium citrate in the treatment of chronic persistent leg cramps.
We set out to investigate whether magnesium citrate could be an effective remedy for those who experience bothersome leg cramps, particularly at night. In our study, we used a randomised, double-blind, cross-over, placebo-controlled design to ensure reliable results. Participants suffering from regular leg cramps were recruited and given either magnesium citrate or a matching placebo over six weeks.
Our findings revealed that those who began the trial with the placebo experienced an average reduction in cramps when taking magnesium, with a median of 5 cramps compared to 9 on the placebo. Moreover, a notable percentage of participants felt that the magnesium treatment had indeed helped them, with 78% reporting benefits, as opposed to 54% who felt the placebo was effective.
While these results suggest that magnesium may have a positive impact, it’s essential to mention that the impact on cramp severity and duration wasn’t significantly different between the two groups. Additionally, some participants did report experiencing diarrhoea as a side effect of magnesium. Overall, we believe magnesium shows promise in alleviating nocturnal leg cramps and recommend further research to fully evaluate its effectiveness.
We explored the effectiveness of magnesium treatment for leg cramps during pregnancy through a review of five randomized trials involving 352 women.
The trials varied in quality, but interestingly, they included comparisons of different treatments such as calcium and sodium chloride against placebos. While the placebo-controlled trial that investigated calcium did not show any significant benefits, there were hints of promise for magnesium.
For those looking for relief from troublesome leg cramps, our analysis indicated that magnesium—specifically in the forms of magnesium lactate or citrate—might help. Taking 5mmol in the morning and 10mmol in the evening seemed to provide the best results.
However, the evidence remains mixed, and we couldn't pinpoint any strong benefits from other combinations or supplements tested. So, while magnesium might be beneficial, it’s essential to approach it as one option among many.
I made up for the magnesium deficiency and began to sleep peacefully. It helped a lot with leg cramps; I recommend it!👍
Read More
9
Cramps managed
101 people found this helpful
The best combination of magnesium! Solgar has not disappointed once again! It works remarkably well—magnesium has helped me effectively manage my leg cramps!
Read More
9
Overall calmness restored
80 people found this helpful
After 4 months of taking these pills, I can confidently say I have regained my peace of mind. I’m less reactive to irritations, and the leg cramps I had been experiencing have also disappeared, which was an unexpected bonus from this supplement.
Read More
9
Calmer sleep achieved
18 people found this helpful
The best magnesium in the correct chelated form, which aids me in combating emotional and physical overload. It has improved my sleep, and the manifestations of leg cramps have stopped, allowing me to find peace of mind. I take it regularly at night. The tablet size is acceptable, and I've found no side effects.
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10
Cramps resolved
17 people found this helpful
Super effective supplement! I delayed writing a review for ages, but I must admit the supplement works for me! After two months, I've noticed significant changes: my mood has improved, anxious feelings have lessened, my sleep has also improved, and leg cramps have ceased bothering me. Overall, I feel more lively and energetic! The product's quality is excellent, with no unpleasant odours! Highly recommended!
Leg cramps, often referred to as "charley horses," are sudden, involuntary contractions of one or more muscles in the leg. They typically occur in the calf muscles but can also affect the thighs and feet. These cramps can be quite painful and may last from a few seconds to several minutes. While the exact cause of leg cramps is not always clear, they can be triggered by factors such as dehydration, prolonged sitting or standing, electrolyte imbalances, or physical activity, especially in those who are not used to vigorous exercise.
Treatment for leg cramps often involves stretching the affected muscle gently, applying heat or cold to the area, and ensuring adequate hydration. For some, dietary adjustments to include more potassium, magnesium, and calcium may help prevent future occurrences. If cramps are frequent or severely debilitating, it may be beneficial to consult a healthcare provider for a more tailored approach. Understanding the underlying causes of leg cramps can lead to more effective management strategies, improving overall comfort and mobility.
Magnesium is a chemical element with the symbol Mg and atomic number 12. It is a lightweight, silvery-white metal that is a member of the alkaline earth metals group. Often classified as one of the most abundant elements in the Earth's crust, magnesium plays a crucial role in various biological functions and is essential for living organisms. In nature, magnesium can be found in large quantities, primarily in minerals such as dolomite and magnesite, and it is also present in seawater.
In terms of health benefits, magnesium is vital for numerous metabolic processes, including energy production, DNA synthesis, and muscle function. It contributes to bone health, helps regulate blood pressure, and supports bone formation by promoting the effects of vitamin D. The recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for magnesium varies by age and gender, but it is generally important to include magnesium-rich foods like leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and whole grains in your diet to ensure adequate intake. For those who may not receive enough magnesium through their diet alone, supplements are also available; however, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplementation.
Magnesium has been noted for its potential role in alleviating leg cramps, particularly in individuals who experience nocturnal leg cramps or muscle spasms. As an essential mineral, magnesium contributes to muscle function and helps regulate muscle contractions. Some studies suggest that supplementing with magnesium may lead to a decrease in the frequency and intensity of leg cramps, especially in populations at risk for magnesium deficiency, such as older adults or those with specific health conditions.
That said, while magnesium supplementation could be beneficial, it's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplements. They can provide personalized advice based on your health history and dietary needs. Moreover, ensuring a balanced intake of nutrients, staying hydrated, and maintaining regular physical activity can also play significant roles in managing leg cramps effectively.
Based on user reviews, the time frame for experiencing relief from leg cramps after starting the magnesium supplement varies considerably, with some users reporting effects as soon as a week, while others took a few months to notice improvements. For instance, one user noted that after just a week of taking the supplement, their muscle cramps disappeared at night, contributing to better sleep quality Read Review. Similarly, another user observed significant changes after two months, stating that their leg cramps ceased entirely Read Review.
On the other hand, some users experienced disappointing results despite consistent use over longer periods. One review highlighted that after two months of taking the supplement, the user still faced issues with leg cramps Read Review. Overall, it appears that while many users see relief within a few weeks to two months, individual experiences will vary based on factors such as dosage, specific formulations, and personal responses to magnesium.
When it comes to using magnesium as a supplement for leg cramps, the scientific evidence presents a mixed bag. Several studies have explored its effectiveness in treating nocturnal leg cramps (NLC) and those occurring during pregnancy. For instance, a randomized controlled trial found that magnesium oxide was effective and safe for alleviating nocturnal leg cramps, with participants reporting symptom improvements [1]. However, the overall consensus from multiple trials indicates that magnesium supplementation, particularly in pregnant women, doesn’t consistently provide significant relief compared to placebo. In one systematic review, magnesium showed only marginal improvements in reducing the frequency and intensity of leg cramps during pregnancy, often yielding inconclusive results [3].
On the other hand, studies specifically targeting nocturnal leg cramps often concluded that magnesium did not offer meaningful benefits for the general population. For example, in a well-structured clinical trial focused on NLC, it was found that magnesium did not significantly outperform a placebo in reducing the frequency of cramps [7]. This highlights the complexity of using magnesium for leg cramps, especially since individual experiences can vary widely. Therefore, while magnesium may help some individuals, particularly for nocturnal cramps, it is crucial to approach this supplement with tempered expectations, as more robust research is needed to draw definitive conclusions on its overall efficacy for leg cramps.
Based on user reviews, a significant number of individuals have reported noticeable improvements in their leg cramps after incorporating magnesium supplements into their routine. Many users noted that they experienced relief within a week to a couple of months of starting these supplements. For instance, one user shared that their leg cramps completely vanished after just a week of use, allowing for improved sleep quality Read Review. Others reported that their muscle cramps ceased within two months, alongside enhanced emotional well-being and sleep quality Read Review.
Users also highlighted the peace of mind they gained, with several indicating that their overall anxiety levels decreased, contributing to a more restful night’s sleep. Positive experiences were not limited to just quicker results; long-term users praised consistent benefits, stating that their symptoms improved significantly over a few months Read Review. However, individual experiences do vary; some users reported minimal results despite regular use, which emphasizes the importance of personal body chemistry and possibly the necessity to explore different formulations if initial efforts do not yield favorable outcomes Read Review.
Based on user reviews, many individuals have reported positive experiences when combining magnesium supplements with other vitamins or minerals, particularly potassium and vitamin B6, for alleviating leg cramps. For instance, one user noted that pairing magnesium with potassium worked wonders for their nightly leg cramps, enhancing the effectiveness of the magnesium alone Read Review. Similarly, several users found that magnesium combined with vitamin B6 produced excellent results in managing their leg cramps, indicating a synergistic effect that boosted overall relief Read Review.
However, not all combinations yielded positive results, as one user experienced no improvement despite taking magnesium alongside other supplements. They noted that their cramps persisted, prompting them to seek out different formulations that were more effective Read Review. Overall, user feedback suggests that while many have found beneficial combinations, individual responses can vary greatly depending on body chemistry and the specific formulations used.
Users report a varied experience with the right dosage of magnesium for treating leg cramps, with many finding effective relief at dosages of one tablet daily. For instance, one user highlighted that "just one tablet daily has improved my muscle cramps" and felt it suited them perfectly, as higher amounts previously caused diarrhoea Read Review. Another reviewer also recommended the product, mentioning it alleviated their leg cramps efficiently Read Review.
In contrast, some users noted they experienced no improvement at different dosages or forms of magnesium. One reviewer, for example, reported two months of taking magnesium B6 resulted in no changes, leading them to search for more effective alternatives Read Review. Others suggested taking the supplement in conjunction with other vitamins or specifically at night for better results. Overall, while users seemed to agree that magnesium can aid in reducing leg cramps, individual responses varied significantly, suggesting that experimentation with dosages and forms may be necessary to discover what works best for one’s needs.
9
No more cramps
7 people found this helpful
Excellent! After a week of taking the supplement, the muscle cramps disappeared at night, and I feel more relaxed. My sleep has improved. I recommend it.
10
Cramps resolved
17 people found this helpful
Super effective supplement! I delayed writing a review for ages, but I must admit the supplement works for me! After two months, I've noticed significant changes: my mood has improved, anxious feelings have lessened, my sleep has also improved, and leg cramps have ceased bothering me. Overall, I feel more lively and energetic! The product's quality is excellent, with no unpleasant odours! Highly recommended!
0
No effect
4 people found this helpful
A doctor advised me to take Magnesium B6 for leg cramps. I have been taking it for two months but have seen no improvement; I still experience cramps. Initially, I hadn't read any reviews, but after realising it didn't help me, I looked them up and found that many others have faced the same issue. I have now discovered a more effective magnesium from Doctor Best, which I will try along with vitamin B6 from Now Foods. It feels like money wasted.
9
Overall calmness restored
80 people found this helpful
After 4 months of taking these pills, I can confidently say I have regained my peace of mind. I’m less reactive to irritations, and the leg cramps I had been experiencing have also disappeared, which was an unexpected bonus from this supplement.
9
Nighttime relief observed
3 people found this helpful
This product works wonders for my nightly leg cramps, especially when paired with potassium.
9
No more cramps
2 people found this helpful
Magnesium and Vitamin B6 together are brilliant! I’ve tried other brands, but this is the best—no more muscle cramps at night!
7.5
Perfect dosage
3 people found this helpful
This dosage suits me perfectly! I previously experienced severe diarrhoea with a higher amount, but now, just one tablet daily has improved my muscle cramps. I often forget to take it with meals, yet it still works well.
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.
We observed the effectiveness of magnesium as a treatment for leg cramps during pregnancy, using data from several studies that included over 500 women. The research aimed to understand whether magnesium could help reduce the frequency and intensity of leg cramps, a common complaint among expectant mothers.
While some studies indicated that magnesium might help reduce the occurrence of leg cramps for some women, the results were inconsistent and did not show a clear benefit. In fact, for various outcomes measured, such as pain intensity and the total number of cramps, the evidence was not strong enough to draw firm conclusions. The studies varied in how they reported their findings, making it challenging for us to compile and compare the data effectively.
Additionally, the certainty of the evidence we found was rated as low to very low, largely due to the small size of the trials and some design limitations. Importantly, there were not enough data to assess the safety of magnesium or compare it adequately with other treatments. Overall, it appears that magnesium may not be the magic bullet for dealing with leg cramps in pregnancy, but more research could help clarify its role in the future.
2
No benefit of magnesium for cramps
Effect of Magnesium Oxide Supplementation on Nocturnal Leg Cramps: A Randomized Clinical Trial.
We conducted a well-structured clinical trial to explore whether magnesium oxide could effectively reduce nocturnal leg cramps (NLC). Our study was randomized, double-blind, and placebo-controlled, involving a community sample of individuals over 21 years who had documented episodes of NLC.
Participants took capsules of either magnesium oxide or a placebo at bedtime for four weeks. We measured the mean number of NLC episodes per week, along with their severity, duration, and impact on quality of life and sleep quality.
The findings showed that magnesium oxide did not prove to be more effective than the placebo in alleviating NLC. Both groups experienced a reduction in NLC frequency, which suggests that any improvement may be attributed to a placebo effect rather than the magnesium itself. This outcome reflects the ongoing discussion about the use of magnesium supplements for managing leg cramps.
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.