Evidence supporting the use of: Magnesium Citrate
For the health condition: Cramps and Spasms

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Magnesium citrate is sometimes used to support or treat muscle cramps and spasms, and there is some scientific rationale for this practice, though the evidence is limited. Magnesium is an essential mineral involved in neuromuscular transmission and muscle contraction. Magnesium deficiency is known to cause increased neuromuscular excitability, which can manifest as muscle cramps or spasms. Supplementation with magnesium, including magnesium citrate, can correct deficiency and may alleviate these symptoms in people who are deficient.

Several randomized controlled trials have examined magnesium supplementation for leg cramps, particularly in pregnant women and older adults. Systematic reviews (e.g., Cochrane Reviews) generally find that the benefit of magnesium supplementation for leg cramps in the general population is small or uncertain, with some evidence of modest benefit in pregnant women but not in the broader population. The form of magnesium (such as citrate) does not appear to have a significant impact on efficacy, but magnesium citrate is often used due to its relatively good oral absorption.

In summary, the use of magnesium citrate for cramps and spasms is supported by a plausible biological mechanism and some evidence for benefit in specific populations (e.g., those who are deficient or pregnant women), but robust evidence for efficacy in the general population with normal magnesium levels is lacking.

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