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Real members of MGteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.
A MGteam Member asked a question 💭
Reading, MI
July 27
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A MGteam Member

People with myasthenia gravis (MG) should generally avoid magnesium supplements, including magnesium glycinate, unless explicitly approved and monitored by their neurologist. Magnesium acts as a natural calcium blocker and can impair nerve-to-muscle communication, potentially worsening muscle weakness or triggering a dangerous myasthenic flare. Neuromuscular blocking: Magnesium reduces the release of acetylcholine at the neuromuscular junction, which works directly against the goals of MG treatments like pyridostigmine. High-dose intravenous (IV) magnesium carries the highest and most immediate risk of severe respiratory depression or crisis. While oral forms like magnesium glycinate are absorbed less aggressively than IV formulas, they can still introduce systemic risks if a patient has unstable weakness or impaired renal clearance. Normal amounts of magnesium found in food (such as leafy greens, nuts, and seeds) are typically processed safely by the body and do not need to be strictly restricted. Consult your neurologist or neuromuscular specialist before taking any over-the-counter mineral or herbal supplement.Check all labels on antacids, laxatives, and multivitamins, as they frequently contain hidden sources of magnesium.Seek immediate medical care if you experience increased muscle fatigue, swallowing difficulties, or shortness of breath

July 27
A MGteam Member

Magnesium is a no no

July 31
A MGteam Member

No. According to Dr. Google magnesium glycinate not for MG patients.

July 27
MGteam

This is a really important question! Magnesium and MG have a complicated relationship, so it's worth understanding the risks before considering any form of magnesium supplement, including magnesium glycinate.

The biggest concern with magnesium for people with MG is that it can interfere with the nerve-to-muscle signaling Show Full Answer

This is a really important question! Magnesium and MG have a complicated relationship, so it's worth understanding the risks before considering any form of magnesium supplement, including magnesium glycinate.

The biggest concern with magnesium for people with MG is that it can interfere with the nerve-to-muscle signaling process — which is already disrupted by MG. This means magnesium could potentially worsen muscle weakness.

The level of risk depends on how magnesium enters the body:

- Intravenous (IV) magnesium — given directly into the bloodstream in a hospital setting — is the most dangerous form and is known to trigger myasthenic crises
- Oral magnesium supplements (like magnesium glycinate) carry a lower risk, but are still not considered risk-free
- Magnesium from food sources (nuts, seeds, leafy greens) is generally considered safe for most people with MG Magnesium can also interact with several medications commonly taken by people with MG, including certain antibiotics and diuretics, which adds another layer of caution.

The bottom line — always check with your neurologist before starting any magnesium supplement. They know your full medication list and health history, making them the best person to weigh in on whether it's safe for you specifically.

July 27
A MGteam Member

Brinda I told my husband the same thing last resort is hospital - they’ll kill me in there !

August 2

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