Magnesium sulfate is used to help relieve occasional constipation.
Take Magnesium sulfate exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not take more or less than instructed by your doctor.
If you are taking the powder form, dissolve the contents of the sachet in water.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.
DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.
Do not take the medicine if you have stomach or bowel problems as Magnesium sulfate may not be suitable for you.
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Do not take Magnesium sulfate for more than a week unless directed by a doctor.
Be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist before giving this medicine to an elderly person.
What lifestyle changes can I make to prevent constipation?
You can adopt some of the following lifestyle changes to help prevent constipation:
- Include high-fibre foods such as fruits, vegetables, beans, and whole-grain cereals and breads in your diet. Add fibre to your diet gradually to help reduce gas and bloating.
- Drink plenty of liquids. Limit caffeine intake which may worsen symptoms of constipation by causing dehydration.
- Be active and exercise regularly.
- Do not ignore the urge to have a bowel movement.
Magnesium sulfate may cause any of the following side effects: stomach discomfort or cramps and watery stool.
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any of these medicines:
- medicines for high blood pressure e.g. captopril, enalapril, fosinopril
- antibiotics e.g. azithromycin, cefaclor, cefpodoxime, methenamine, tetracyclines
- medicine to treat fungal infection e.g. itraconazole, ketoconazole
- medicine to treat viral infection e.g. atazanavir, tipranavir
- medicines to treat TB (infection known as tuberculosis) e.g. isoniazid, rifampicin
- fexofenadine (medicine for cold or allergy)
- medicine for epilepsy (fits or seizures) e.g. gabapentin, phenytoin
- medicine for stomach ulcer e.g. lansoprazole
- medicine for thyroid disease e.g. levothyroxine
This list does not include all medicines that may interact with Magnesium sulfate.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol.
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
Do not refrigerate or freeze.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.