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When doctors prescribe medications, they usually provide clear guidance on how to take them safely, including timing and potential interactions. Supplements, however, often lack that level of oversight since most people purchase them over the counter. This places the responsibility on individuals to understand how to use supplements properly-something that doesn’t always happen.
Dr. Janis Kosma-Covey, a compounding pharmacist and founder of Kosmatology, stresses the importance of treating vitamins, minerals, and herbal supplements as part of your overall medication regimen. “It’s crucial to inform your healthcare team-including your pharmacist and primary care physician-about all supplements you’re taking,” she advises.
One common misconception Dr. Kosma-Covey encounters is the belief that “natural” supplements are automatically safe. She cautions that supplements can interact with prescription medications, affect absorption, and sometimes cause side effects or toxicity.
Among the many supplements people take, magnesium stands out as one that pharmacists especially wish patients would disclose to their doctors. Magnesium has surged in popularity for uses ranging from improving sleep and relaxation to easing muscle cramps and constipation.
Because it is a naturally occurring mineral and easily available, many assume it poses no risks. However, Dr.
Kosma-Covey points out that magnesium can indeed interact with medications.
Dr. Joseph Walter, a pharmacist at Hackensack Meridian Health, explains that magnesium can bind to certain medications in the stomach, altering how they’re absorbed.
For example, magnesium can reduce the effectiveness of some antibiotics by preventing proper absorption. To avoid this, magnesium supplements should be taken two to three hours apart from such antibiotics-a detail many people overlook.
Magnesium can also interfere with medications used to treat osteoporosis.
Beyond drug interactions, magnesium supplements may pose risks for individuals with kidney disease, neuromuscular conditions, or cardiovascular issues. Therefore, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional before starting magnesium supplements.
Despite these concerns, magnesium is vital for many bodily functions. Dr.
Walter notes that most people don’t get enough magnesium through diet alone, and supplementation can support muscle and nerve function, stabilize blood sugar and blood pressure, and promote bone health. It may also help those who suffer from migraines.
If you consider taking magnesium, Dr. Walter recommends magnesium glycinate as a preferred form due to its high absorption rate and gentle effect on the stomach.
Still, he emphasizes that dietary sources should be the primary way to obtain magnesium since it’s nearly impossible to overdose on magnesium from food. The body naturally excretes any excess magnesium consumed through diet.
Supplements, however, deliver concentrated doses that can lead to elevated magnesium levels if not properly managed. The National Institutes of Health advises a daily supplement limit of 350 milligrams to stay within safe bounds.
Other common pitfalls with supplements include inadvertently taking overlapping ingredients-such as multiple products containing the same vitamins-which can lead to excessive intake. Timing is also key; taking all supplements and medications simultaneously can reduce their effectiveness or increase side effects.
Finally, Dr. Kosma-Covey reminds people that more isn’t always better.
Excessive doses of vitamins and minerals can be harmful. Before starting any supplement, ask your doctor whether it’s necessary and supported by evidence.
If you have questions about any supplements you’re using or considering, consulting your doctor or pharmacist is the best way to ensure your choices support your health safely and effectively.