| ATC Code | A02AA02, A06AD02, A12CC10 |
| CAS number | 1309-48-4 |
| PUB number | 14792 |
| Drugbank ID | DB01377 |
| Empirical formula | MgO |
| Molar mass (g·mol−1) | 40,304 |
| Physical state | solid |
| Density (g·cm−3) | 3,58 |
| Melting point (°C) | 2800 |
| Boiling point (°C) | 3600 |
Magnesium oxide is a salt consisting of the elements magneisum and oxygen. In medicine, the compound is commonly used as a laxative for symptomatic relief of acid indigestion and stomach upset, and in dietary supplements for cardiovascular and neuromuscular health.
Pharmacodynamics
When taken orally, magnesium oxide acts as a so-called osmotic laxative. This draws fluid from the body into the intestine, increasing stool mass and stimulating nerves in the colon wall. This stimulates intestinal peristalsis and subsequently leads to emptying of the intestinal contents. Dietary magnesium supplements have also been shown to reduce platelet aggregation by inhibiting the influx of calcium, a critical component of platelet aggregation.
Markus Falkenstätter, BSc
Mag. pharm. Stefanie Lehenauer
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