Magnesium

ElectrolytesBone & MuscleBlood

Magnesium is an electrolyte involved in many bodily reactions that affect cell function and nerve conduction.

Why it matters: Only the magnesium dissolved in the fluid outside the cells, mostly blood plasma, is available for use by cells and organs.

Source · Cleveland Clinic — what it is, why it matters, what moves it

Source · Cleveland Clinic — what moves it

Reference Range
0.7 – 1.05mmol/L
0.7
1.05LowNormalHigh
What Moves It

May increase with:

Kidney failure
Addison's disease
Adrenal insufficiency
Hypothyroidism
Long-term use of antacids or laxatives containing magnesium
Lithium-based medicines

May decrease with:

Alcohol use disorder
Poorly managed diabetes
Diuretic medicines
Diarrhea
Coeliac disease
Certain antibiotics
Related Markers
CalciumPotassium
Common questions

What is Magnesium?

Magnesium is an electrolyte involved in many bodily reactions that affect cell function and nerve conduction.

What might a high or low Magnesium mean?

Only the magnesium dissolved in the fluid outside the cells, mostly blood plasma, is available for use by cells and organs.

What is the typical reference range for Magnesium?

The general-population reference range shown here is 0.7 – 1.05 mmol/L. Reference ranges describe the general population and are not a personal target — discuss your results with your physician.

What can affect Magnesium?

It may be higher with: Kidney failure, Addison's disease, Adrenal insufficiency, Hypothyroidism, Long-term use of antacids or laxatives containing magnesium, Lithium-based medicines. It may be lower with: Alcohol use disorder, Poorly managed diabetes, Diuretic medicines, Diarrhea, Coeliac disease, Certain antibiotics.

More in Electrolytes
CalciumCalcium/Albumin RatioCalcium/Phosphorous RatioChlorideIonized CalciumPhosphorusPotassiumPTHSodiumSodium/Potassium Ratio

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