Magnesium - Book

This is the second most abundant ICF cation after potassium.

Magnesium

What are the functions of magnesium in the body?

• Supports carbohydrate and protein metabolism

• Aids neuromuscular function

• Promotes cardiovascular vasodilation

How is magnesium gained and lost in the body?

• Gained through GI tract from green leafy vegetables, nuts, seafood, whole grains, dry peas/beans, cocoa

• Lost via urine, especially with loop diuretic use

How is magnesium regulated?

Parathyroid hormone

Eliminated by the kidneys

Magnesium loss may occur?

• Nasogastric suction

• Diarrhea

• Chronic alcohol use

• Administration of tube feedings or parenteral nutrition

• Sepsis

• Burns

Hypomagnesemia may lead to?

• Muscle weakness

• Tremors

• Tetany

• Seizures

• Cardiac arrhythmias

• Change in mental status

• Hyperactive deep tendon reflexes (DTRs)

• Respiratory paralysis

Hypermagnesemia usually occurs with?

• Renal failure

• Excessive magnesium intake (use of magnesium-containing antacids or laxatives)

Clinical manifestations of Hypermagnesemia include?

• Nausea/Vomiting

• Weakness

• Flushing

• Lethargy

• Hypoactive deep tendon reflexes.

• Respiratory depression

• Coma

• Cardiac arrest