Electrolyte replacement drugs Magnesium
Magnesium is the most abundant cation in ICF after potassium. It’s essential in transmitting nerve impulses to muscle and activating enzymes necessary for carbohydrate and protein metabolism. About 65% of all magnesium is in bone, and 20% is in muscle.
Officiating in the ICF
Magnesium stimulates parathyroid hormone secretion, thus regulating ICF calcium levels.
Traffic control
Magnesium also aids in cell metabolism and the movement of sodium and potassium across cell membranes.
Warning!
Adverse reactions to calcium
Calcium preparations may produce hypercalcemia (elevated serum calcium levels). Early signs include:
- drowsiness
- lethargy
- muscle weakness
- headache
- constipation
- metallic taste.
Take this to heart
Electrocardiogram changes that occur with elevated serum calcium levels include a shortened QT interval and heart block. Severe hypercalcemia can cause cardiac arrhythmias, cardiac arrest, and coma.
A run on magnesium
Magnesium stores may be depleted by:
- malabsorption
- chronic diarrhea
- prolonged treatment with diuretics
- nasogastric suctioning
- prolonged therapy with parenteral fluids not containing magnesium
- hyperaldosteronism
- hypoparathyroidism or hyperparathyroidism
- excessive release of adrenocortical hormones
- acute and chronic alcohol consumption
- drugs, such as cisplatin, aminoglycosides, cyclosporine, and amphotericin B.