Epsom Salt Side Effects
Generic name: magnesium sulfate
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Jul 24, 2023.
Note: This document contains side effect information about magnesium sulfate. Some dosage forms listed on this page may not apply to the brand name Epsom Salt.
Applies to magnesium sulfate: crystal, foam, powder, powder for solution, powder for suspension, spray.
Serious side effects of Epsom Salt
Along with its needed effects, magnesium sulfate (the active ingredient contained in Epsom Salt) may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.
Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking magnesium sulfate:
Incidence not known
- Confusion
- dizziness or lightheadedness
- fast, slow, or irregular heartbeat
- low blood pressure
- muscle weakness
- skin infection after soaking
- sleepiness
Other side effects of Epsom Salt
Some side effects of magnesium sulfate may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.
Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:
Incidence not known
- Diarrhea
- skin irritation after soaking
For Healthcare Professionals
Applies to magnesium sulfate: injectable solution, intravenous solution, oral and topical powder for reconstitution.
Metabolic
Frequency not reported: Hypermagnesemia (signs include drowsiness, loss of reflexes, nausea, vomiting, flushing, thirst, hypotension, hypothermia, bradycardia, confusion, electrolyte and fluid abnormalities, slurred speech, muscle weakness, muscle paralysis, blurred or double vision, CNS depression, respiratory depression, respiratory paralysis, circulatory collapse, renal failure, coma, cardiac arrhythmias, cardiac arrest), hypocalcemia with tetany secondary to hypermagnesemia, alkalosis[Ref]
Gastrointestinal
Frequency not reported: Colic, gastrointestinal irritation, watery diarrhea, paralytic ileus[Ref]
Hypersensitivity
Frequency not reported: Hypersensitivity reactions[Ref]
Local
Frequency not reported: Irritation and pain at the injection site[Ref]
More about Epsom Salt (magnesium sulfate)
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Professional resources
Related treatment guides
References
1. Product Information. Magnesium Sulfate (magnesium sulfate). Abbott Pharmaceutical. 2001.
2. Cerner Multum, Inc. UK Summary of Product Characteristics.
3. Cerner Multum, Inc. Australian Product Information.
Further information
Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.
Some side effects may not be reported. You may report them to the FDA.