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magnesium peroxide

A06AD03

Forms & Strengths

Oral powder, varying strengths
Oral tablets/capsules, varying strengths

Adult Dosing

Constipation: 1 to 2 g daily as a single dose with water, or as directed by product labeling
Short-term use only; do not exceed recommended duration

Pediatric Dosing

Safety and efficacy not well established in children
Use in pediatric patients generally not recommended without specific medical supervision

Indications

Short-term relief of occasional constipation
Bowel cleansing prior to procedures (historical or specific OTC uses)

Mechanism of Action

Reacts with gastric acid and water in the gastrointestinal tract to release oxygen and form magnesium hydroxide
Magnesium hydroxide acts as an osmotic laxative, drawing water into the intestinal lumen to increase motility and soften stool

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to magnesium peroxide or any component
Symptoms of appendicitis, intestinal obstruction, or bowel perforation
Severe renal impairment
Undiagnosed abdominal pain

Adverse Reactions

Abdominal cramps
Gastrointestinal irritation
Diarrhea
Electrolytes imbalance with prolonged use (e.g., hypermagnesemia in renal impairment)

Drug Interactions

May decrease the absorption of concurrently administered oral medications (e.g., tetracyclines, fluoroquinolones, iron) due to binding or altered GI pH/transit time
Other CNS depressants or magnesium-containing products may increase risk of hypermagnesemia or additive side effects

Curated Content: Needs Vetting Before Put to Clinical Use