What is Epsom Salt?
Magnesium, a naturally occurring element, is essential for the health of many body systems. This includes the muscles and the nerves. Magnesium sulfate increases water in the intestines.Magnesium sulfate can be used to treat occasional constipation.The FDA has not approved all external uses of magnesium sulfate. Epsom salt is not a substitute for medication prescribed by your doctor.This medication guide does not list all possible uses of magnesium sulfate.
Side effects of Epsom Salt
If you experience any of the following symptoms of an allergic reaction, seek immediate medical attention: hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of your lips, face, or throat.Some of the most common side effects include diarrhea and an upset stomach.There may be other side effects. For medical advice on side effects, call your doctor. The FDA can be contacted at 1-800-FDA-1088 to report side effects.
Cautions
Never exceed the recommended dose on the label or what your doctor prescribes. Too much magnesium sulfate may cause life-threatening effects.If you suffer from severe constipation or colitis or have a toxic megacolon or severe constipation or nausea, do not use magnesium as a laxative. Consult your doctor.Stop using the laxative immediately if you experience rectal bleeding or do not pass a stool after taking magnesium sulfate. These symptoms may indicate a serious medical condition.
Prior to using this drug
Do not use magnesium sulfate without consulting your doctor if you:
- Severe stomach pain;
- Nausea or vomiting;
- A perforated bowel
bowel obstruction, or severe constipation. - Colitis or toxic megacolon
- A sudden change in bowel habits lasting at least 2 weeks
If you suffer from:
- Diabetes;
- Kidney disease
- An eating disorder (anorexia, or bulimia);
- If you've been using laxatives for more than a week,
- If you are on a diet low in magnesium,
Unknown is whether or not magnesium sulfate can harm an unborn child. If you plan to get pregnant or are already pregnant, tell your doctor.There is no way to know if magnesium sulfate can pass into breast milk or if it will harm a baby who is nursing. You should tell your doctor if you're breastfeeding a child.
How do I take Epsom Salt?
Follow the instructions on the label or those prescribed by your doctor.Never exceed the recommended dose on the label or what your doctor prescribes. Too much magnesium sulfate may cause life-threatening effects.You can use magnesium sulfate either orally or as a soak. You should follow your doctor's directions or those on the packaging.For magnesium sulfate to be taken orally, mix one dose with 8 ounces of water. This mixture should be stirred and consumed immediately. You can add some lemon juice to this mixture to enhance its taste.Oral magnesium sulfate should cause a bowel motion within 30 minutes to 6 hours.Take magnesium sulfate with plenty of fluids.Stop using the laxative immediately if you experience rectal bleeding or do not pass stools after taking magnesium sulfate. These symptoms may indicate a serious problem.Use a large quantity of water to dissolve magnesium sulfate in a large bucket, foot tub, or bath tub. Use the instructions on the label to determine how much epsom sulfate you should use per gallon.Store away from heat and moisture at room temperature.
What happens if I miss the dose?
You are unlikely to miss a dosage of magnesium sulfate since it is only used as needed.
What happens if I overdose?
Call the Poison Help Line at 1-800-222-1222 or seek emergency medical care. A magnesium sulfate overdose can be fatal.Overdose symptoms include nausea, vomiting, and flushing (warmth or redness). Other symptoms are feeling very warm, a slow heartbeat, or extreme drowsiness.
Avoid this
Oral magnesium sulfate can interfere with the absorption of other medications, including antibiotics. Take other medications at least 2 hours after or before taking magnesium sulfate.
Interaction with other drug
Other drugs, such as vitamins and herbal remedies, may also interact with magnesium. Inform your healthcare providers of all the medicines you are taking and those you plan to take.
