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PPIs Linked to Low Magnesium

Acid suppressing drugs may have an unexpected complication. A series of case reports linking proton pump inhibitors to low magnesium levels is worrisome. PPIs may interfere with magnesium absorption from the digestive tract.

When magnesium levels drop too low, symptoms can include muscle cramps, nerve pain, heart arrhythmias, lethargy and seizures. If not corrected, this electrolyte imbalance can become life threatening. Many patients may not even realize that their magnesium levels have fallen into the danger zone.


[Archives of Internal Medicine, Aug. 8, 2011]

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About the Author
Terry Graedon, PhD, is a medical anthropologist and co-host of The People’s Pharmacy radio show, co-author of The People’s Pharmacy syndicated newspaper columns and numerous books, and co-founder of The People’s Pharmacy website. Terry taught in the Duke University School of Nursing and was an adjunct assistant professor in the Department of Anthropology. She is a Fellow of the Society of Applied Anthropology. Terry is one of the country's leading authorities on the science behind folk remedies..
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