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.
Read More
Most Useful Reviews
9
Effective for cramps
40 people found this helpful
Initially, I purchased these vitamins for my husband to aid with leg cramps. Remarkably, after just a week, the convulsions ceased. I then tried them myself to support heart health and stabilise my nervous system, and the results were astounding. Even my breathing improved with the magnesium, potassium, and taurine complex! We also got some for my grandmother, and she too experienced benefits, such as normalising her blood pressure and relieving neck pain. These vitamins are a true miracle! I highly recommend them, but consulting a doctor is advisable. Avoid taking them with low blood pressure!
Read More
10
Amazing results
35 people found this helpful
UPDATE: These supplements continue to work for me. I am usually sceptical about new products, especially when they receive rave reviews. I suffered from leg and foot cramps at night, causing me to bolt out of bed in pain. Potassium and magnesium were said to be helpful, and after taking two a day for a week or two, all my cramping ceased. I'm a firm believer in the power of the right supplements.
Read More
10
Works every evening
19 people found this helpful
I needed a solution for night-time leg cramps and regularity. These tablets really work for me! I take three every evening, and I no longer experience leg cramps. They also aid in keeping my digestive system functioning well. However, three might be excessive for some; one or two could suffice based on individual needs.
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.
Initially, I purchased these vitamins for my husband to aid with leg cramps. Remarkably, after just a week, the convulsions ceased. I then tried them myself to support heart health and stabilise my nervous system, and the results were astounding. Even my breathing improved with the magnesium, potassium, and taurine complex! We also got some for my grandmother, and she too experienced benefits, such as normalising her blood pressure and relieving neck pain. These vitamins are a true miracle! I highly recommend them, but consulting a doctor is advisable. Avoid taking them with low blood pressure!
Read More
10
Amazing results
35 people found this helpful
UPDATE: These supplements continue to work for me. I am usually sceptical about new products, especially when they receive rave reviews. I suffered from leg and foot cramps at night, causing me to bolt out of bed in pain. Potassium and magnesium were said to be helpful, and after taking two a day for a week or two, all my cramping ceased. I'm a firm believer in the power of the right supplements.
Read More
10
Works every evening
19 people found this helpful
I needed a solution for night-time leg cramps and regularity. These tablets really work for me! I take three every evening, and I no longer experience leg cramps. They also aid in keeping my digestive system functioning well. However, three might be excessive for some; one or two could suffice based on individual needs.
Read More
9
Stops night cramps
18 people found this helpful
We have been using this product for a while now. We've noticed that when we forget to take it, we get night-time cramps in our legs and feet; however, when we take it as recommended, they vanish. At 62, we never had cramps until our late 50s, and this supplement has proven to be very effective.
Read More
9
Fast relief from cramps
18 people found this helpful
I find this dietary supplement to be among the best, as it includes easily absorbed magnesium aspartate, potassium, and taurine. I experienced instant relief after the treatment course, noting that my cramps and muscle tightening faded. I also realised improvements in my mood, sleep, and overall emotional state. This product significantly supports the cardiovascular system, and I recommend it wholeheartedly.
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 timeline for experiencing relief from leg cramps after starting this supplement typically ranges from a few days to about two weeks. Many users report significant improvements within the first week of usage. For instance, one reviewer noted that after just a week, their husband's leg cramps ceased entirely Read Review. Another user shared that within days of taking the supplement, their calf cramps were resolved Read Review.
Some individuals, however, experienced full relief after a longer period, such as around two weeks, emphasizing the importance of consistency in taking the supplement Read Review. Overall, while most users felt noticeable improvements quickly, some suggested that maintaining hydration and adherence to the recommended dosage played a significant role in reducing leg cramps effectively.
Magnesium supplementation has been the subject of numerous studies to assess its effectiveness in alleviating leg cramps, particularly nocturnal leg cramps (NLC) and those associated with pregnancy. Research including a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial indicated that magnesium oxide monohydrate (MOMH) can be effective in treating NLC, with participants reporting improvements in symptoms after treatment [1]. However, the evidence is not universally strong; several studies found little to no significant benefit of magnesium for leg cramps overall, particularly in pregnant women, where analyses showed inconsistent results and low certainty of evidence [2][8].
For pregnant women specifically, while some studies hinted at slight reductions in cramps, these benefits were not consistently observed, and overall, the effectiveness of magnesium supplementation remains unclear [5][1]. The mixed results across different populations indicate that additional research is necessary to fully understand magnesium's role and potential efficacy in managing leg cramps more broadly. In summary, while there is some evidence supporting magnesium's utility for certain individuals experiencing leg cramps, its overall reliability is still up for debate.
Based on user reviews, a notable number of individuals have reported significant improvements in their leg cramps after using this supplement. Many users indicated that their symptoms resolved quickly, often within days or about a week—one review highlighted that a husband’s leg cramps completely ceased after just one week of taking the product Read Review. Others also shared similar experiences, stating that their muscle cramps disappeared altogether Read Review and that they no longer woke up during the night due to pain Read Review.
In addition to alleviating cramps, some users reported additional health benefits, such as improved sleep quality and reduced anxiety levels Read Review. One reviewer specifically mentioned being able to swim without experiencing cramps—particularly important for those involved in physical activities Read Review. Overall, while many users have experienced positive results from this supplement, it's essential to remember that individual experiences can vary, and factors like hydration and consistent use are crucial in achieving the best outcomes.
Based on user reviews, many individuals have reported positive experiences when combining this supplement with other supplements, particularly magnesium, potassium, and taurine. Users noted that the combination effectively addresses leg cramps, with one reviewer mentioning that after starting to take magnesium along with this dietary supplement, their leg cramps ceased entirely after a week Read Review. Additionally, another user highlighted the synergistic effect of magnesium, potassium, and taurine, noting that this blend worked well to alleviate leg cramps and improve overall cardiovascular health, especially for those engaged in high physical activities Read Review.
Furthermore, several users mentioned that old issues with cramping returned when they forgot to take the supplements or did not maintain the recommended dosage, underlining the importance of consistent intake for optimal results Read Review. This suggests that while the supplement is effective on its own, combining it with other essential nutrients like magnesium can provide enhanced benefits for those suffering from leg cramps. Overall, users recommend staying hydrated and integrating these nutrients into a daily routine to maximize the relief of leg cramps Read Review.
When it comes to treating leg cramps, research findings suggest a mixed picture regarding the effectiveness of magnesium supplementation. In studies focused on nocturnal leg cramps (NLC), participants frequently reported improvements while taking magnesium oxide monohydrate (MOMH) at varying doses. However, when specifically assessing efficacy, it appears that no standardized optimal dose has emerged as universally effective. For instance, some studies suggest dosages around 300 mg per day, particularly of magnesium citrate, while others have used higher doses like 900 mg of magnesium citrate twice daily. Unfortunately, many studies indicate that magnesium does not consistently outperform placebo in reducing leg cramps or their severity [1][16].
For pregnant women, some trials noted that magnesium consumption could lead to a reduction in cramp frequency and intensity; doses of 5 mmol in the morning and 10 mmol in the evening showed promise in certain reviews [15]. However, the overall consensus remains that the evidence is inconclusive, with many experts emphasizing the need for further robust research. Thus, while magnesium may provide some benefits for leg cramps, determining an optimal dose is still an open question, and individuals should consult healthcare professionals for tailored recommendations that suit their specific needs [8].
9
Effective for cramps
40 people found this helpful
Initially, I purchased these vitamins for my husband to aid with leg cramps. Remarkably, after just a week, the convulsions ceased. I then tried them myself to support heart health and stabilise my nervous system, and the results were astounding. Even my breathing improved with the magnesium, potassium, and taurine complex! We also got some for my grandmother, and she too experienced benefits, such as normalising her blood pressure and relieving neck pain. These vitamins are a true miracle! I highly recommend them, but consulting a doctor is advisable. Avoid taking them with low blood pressure!
10
Quick relief
7 people found this helpful
Great! I was experiencing calf cramps and within days I felt completely fine.
9
Quick improvement noted
5 people found this helpful
I highly recommend this product! After experiencing cramps in my calf muscles and finding no relief with pure magnesium, I took magnesium and potassium aspartate for two weeks, and now I wake up without any cramps. The quality and price are excellent for these essential nutrients.
10
Complete relief from cramps
9 people found this helpful
Helped! This is a fantastic drug with a perfect composition! After a week of taking it, my leg cramps fully disappeared. I used to wake up from severe convulsions at night and occasionally felt cramps while driving, but now everything has resolved completely! I recommend it wholeheartedly to anyone suffering from this problem. I took one capsule twice daily, in the morning and evening. A wonderful preparation!
9
No more cramps
11 people found this helpful
My 94-year-old mother takes these for leg cramps, and she no longer has those painful leg cramps at night.
9
Fast relief from cramps
18 people found this helpful
I find this dietary supplement to be among the best, as it includes easily absorbed magnesium aspartate, potassium, and taurine. I experienced instant relief after the treatment course, noting that my cramps and muscle tightening faded. I also realised improvements in my mood, sleep, and overall emotional state. This product significantly supports the cardiovascular system, and I recommend it wholeheartedly.
10
Cramps stopped
3 people found this helpful
At 47, with a herniated lumbar spine, my neurologist prescribed exercises and swimming. I struggled with calf cramps during swimming for a long time; however, after two weeks of taking magnesium and potassium aspartate, I could swim 25 meters without cramping. After a month, these leg cramps stopped entirely, which I attribute mainly to the magnesium and potassium aspartate.
7.5
Reduced leg cramps
12 people found this helpful
I began taking magnesium following my instructor's advice to mitigate cramps in my legs during fitness. After a week of taking two capsules a day, my cramps ceased. I've since decreased my intake to one capsule daily as everything is now back to normal.
9
Effective product
3 people found this helpful
Magnesium, potassium aspartate, and taurine work well together. Trinity is excellent for those exposed to high physical demands. I bought it for my husband, but I started taking it as well. He no longer has leg cramps.
9
Stops night cramps
18 people found this helpful
We have been using this product for a while now. We've noticed that when we forget to take it, we get night-time cramps in our legs and feet; however, when we take it as recommended, they vanish. At 62, we never had cramps until our late 50s, and this supplement has proven to be very effective.
7.5
Wonderful blend for cramps
4 people found this helpful
Great! I adore this product. I have tried numerous types of magnesium for night-time leg cramps, and this blend is truly exceptional. If experiencing leg cramps, ensure you are well-hydrated throughout the day and give this a try!
9
Magnesium oxide treats leg cramps
A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicenter study assessing the efficacy of magnesium oxide monohydrate in the treatment of nocturnal leg cramps.
We conducted a study to evaluate how effective magnesium oxide monohydrate (MOMH) is in treating nocturnal leg cramps (NLC). This was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial involving multiple centers in Ukraine, where participants took either MOMH or a placebo nightly for 60 days.
Our focus was on measuring the frequency and duration of cramps, the pain they caused, and how they affected sleep quality and overall life satisfaction. We used thorough statistical methods to compare the results between the two groups.
The findings indicated that MOMH is both effective and safe for individuals dealing with NLC. Participants reported improvements in their symptoms, demonstrating that this magnesium supplement can play a helpful role in managing nocturnal leg cramps.
2
Magnesium ineffective for leg cramps
Effect of oral magnesium supplementation for relieving leg cramps during pregnancy: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.
We examined the effectiveness of magnesium supplements in reducing leg cramps during pregnancy, a common issue that affects up to half of pregnant women. Four randomized controlled trials were included in our analysis, with a total of 332 participants, which compared magnesium treatment to a placebo.
Our findings showed that magnesium supplementation did not significantly decrease the frequency of leg cramps compared to the control group. The weighted mean difference was -0.47, which indicates that while there may be a slight improvement, it was not considered statistically meaningful.
Moreover, magnesium did not help women recover from leg cramps more effectively than the placebo, and there were no significant side effects reported. Overall, we found that oral magnesium supplementation is not effective in treating leg cramps during pregnancy.
We explored how magnesium might help alleviate leg cramps during pregnancy through a systematic review of six randomized controlled trials, involving 390 women in total. These studies compared magnesium with placebo or no treatment to see if it could reduce the frequency and intensity of these cramps.
Interestingly, the results showed mixed outcomes. While some trials indicated a slight reduction in the number of leg cramps after magnesium treatment, it wasn't consistent across the board. For example, one trial noted that magnesium could lead to a 50% reduction in cramps, while others found no significant difference compared to placebo.
We also observed that the overall quality of the evidence was low, mainly due to small sample sizes and design limitations. The studies did not comprehensively assess the safety of magnesium either, as side effects were only reported for magnesium versus placebo. Additionally, it was worth noting that other interventions like calcium and vitamin B were also tested but did not show a clear advantage over magnesium.
In conclusion, our findings leave us with an unclear picture of magnesium's effectiveness against leg cramps in pregnant women. For a more definitive answer, more rigorous studies are warranted, especially those exploring different methodologies, including non-drug therapies.
2
Magnesium does not reduce leg cramps
Oral magnesium supplementation for leg cramps in pregnancy-An observational controlled trial.
We investigated the effectiveness of oral magnesium supplementation in reducing leg cramps among pregnant women. In a controlled clinical trial with 132 participants, we compared the impact of 300 mg/day of magnesium citrate against a placebo.
Most participants experienced multiple leg cramps each week, and after four weeks, we recorded a notable reduction in leg cramps overall—28.4% across all women. However, when looking closely, we found no significant difference between the magnesium group and the placebo group. The placebo group even reported a slightly higher percentage of reduction in cramps (32.8% versus 27.2% for magnesium).
We also looked at the side effects and found that four women reported mild gastrointestinal issues, but these were not serious. Overall, the results suggest that oral magnesium supplementation does not significantly improve leg cramps during pregnancy, raising questions about its effectiveness for this purpose.
2
No significant magnesium effect observed
Magnesium for the treatment of nocturnal leg cramps: a crossover randomized trial.
We analyzed the effectiveness of magnesium in treating nocturnal leg cramps through a well-designed study involving a crossover randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial. In this trial, conducted in Buenos Aires, participants who experienced at least six cramps in the previous month were included.
After an initial washout period with a placebo, 45 eligible individuals were randomly assigned to receive either 900 mg of magnesium citrate twice daily or a placebo for one month, followed by the opposite treatment after another washout.
Our findings were clear: magnesium did not show significant benefits in reducing the number of leg cramps compared to the placebo. In fact, the average number of cramps per participant was similar—11.1 for placebo versus 11.8 for magnesium—indicating that magnesium was not effective in this scenario.
We also noted a period-effect bias, where all participants reported some improvement over time, regardless of whether they received magnesium or placebo. This suggests that factors other than the treatment might be at play, such as the natural progression of leg cramps or a placebo effect.
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.
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.