When it comes to magnesium and myasthenia gravis, it's a bit of a tricky relationship. Magnesium helps muscles relax, which can actually worsen muscle weakness and potentially interfere with medications like pyridostigmine (Mestinon). In serious cases, high doses can even trigger a myasthenic crisis.
That said, not all Show Full Answer
When it comes to magnesium and myasthenia gravis, it's a bit of a tricky relationship. Magnesium helps muscles relax, which can actually worsen muscle weakness and potentially interfere with medications like pyridostigmine (Mestinon). In serious cases, high doses can even trigger a myasthenic crisis.
That said, not all magnesium exposure needs to be avoided. Here's a general breakdown:
- Magnesium-rich foods (like nuts, seeds, spinach, and black beans) are generally considered safe for most people with MG
- Small amounts in multivitamins are usually not harmful
- Magnesium supplements in higher doses are where the real concern lies
- IV magnesium is the most dangerous form and is typically only given in hospitals One MGteam member shared that magnesium gave them an extra tired feeling the following day, which is worth keeping in mind.
It's also worth checking labels on over-the-counter products like antacids and laxatives, as these can contain magnesium without it being obvious.
The safest step is to speak with your neurologist before taking any magnesium supplement. They can review your current medications and help determine what's appropriate for your specific situation.
October 22