Epsom Salt
Generic name:magnesium sulfate (epsom salt) [ mag-NEE-see-um-SUL-fate ]
Drug classes:Laxatives, Minerals and electrolytes, Miscellaneous anticonvulsants
What is magnesium sulfate?
Magnesium is a naturally occurring mineral that is important for many systems in the body especially the muscles and nerves. Magnesium sulfate also increases water in the intestines.
Magnesium sulfate is used as a laxative to relieve occasional constipation.
Not all external uses for magnesium sulfate have been approved by the FDA. Epsom salt should not be used in place of medication prescribed for you by your doctor.
Magnesium sulfate may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
Never use a higher dose of magnesium sulfate than recommended on the package label, or as your doctor has directed. Using too much magnesium sulfate can cause serious, life-threatening side effects.
Do not use magnesium sulfate as a laxative without medical advice if you have: severe stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, a perforated bowel, a bowel obstruction, severe constipation, colitis, toxic megacolon, or a sudden change in bowel habits that has lasted 2 weeks or longer.
If you have rectal bleeding or if you do not have a bowel movement after using magnesium sulfate as a laxative, stop using the medication and call your doctor at once. These may be signs of a more serious condition.
Before taking this medicine
Do not use magnesium sulfate as a laxative without medical advice if you have:
severe stomach pain;
nausea or vomiting;
a perforated bowel;
a bowel obstruction or severe constipation;
colitis or toxic megacolon; or
a sudden change in bowel habits lasting 2 weeks or longer.
Ask a doctor or pharmacist if it is safe for you to take Epsom Salt if you have:
diabetes;
kidney disease;
an eating disorder (anorexia or bulimia);
if you have already been using a laxative for longer than 1 week; or
if you on a low-magnesium diet.
It is not known whether magnesium sulfate will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while...
