Hypermagnesemia: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Hypermagnesemia is a condition characterized by elevated magnesium levels in the blood, often resulting from impaired kidney function or excessive magnesium intake.

Causes of Hypermagnesemia

• Chronic kidney disease (CKD)
• Excessive magnesium supplementation
• Medications containing magnesium, such as laxatives and antacids
• Adrenal insufficiency
• Severe dehydration

Symptoms of Hypermagnesemia

Symptoms vary based on magnesium levels but commonly include:

• Muscle weakness
• Nausea and vomiting
• Low blood pressure (hypotension)
• Respiratory depression
• Irregular heart rhythms
• Confusion or lethargy

Treatment Options

Management of hypermagnesemia involves:

• Discontinuing magnesium-containing medications
• Intravenous calcium administration to counteract magnesium's effects
• Diuretics to enhance magnesium excretion
• Hemodialysis for severe cases

Prevention

Preventing hypermagnesemia requires careful monitoring of magnesium intake, particularly in individuals with kidney disease or those using magnesium-based medications.