Magnesium trisilicate Health Dictionary

Magnesium is a light metallic element; it is one of the essential mineral elements of the body, without which the body cannot function properly. The adult body contains around 25 grams of magnesium, the greater part of which is in the bones. More than two-thirds of our daily supply comes from cereals and vegetables; as most other foods also contain useful amounts, there is seldom any di?culty in maintaining an adequate amount in the body. Magnesium is also an essential constituent of several vital enzymes (see ENZYME). De?ciency leads to muscular weakness and interferes with the e?cient working of the heart. The salts of magnesium used as drugs are the hydroxide of magnesium, the oxide of magnesium – generally known as ‘magnesia’ – and the carbonate of magnesium, all of which have an antacid action; also the sulphate of magnesium known as ‘Epsom salts’, which acts as a purgative.

Uses Compounds of magnesia are used to correct hyperacidity of the stomach and as a laxative (see LAXATIVES).... magnesium

A magnesium compound used as a laxative drug and an anticonvulsant drug.... magnesium sulphate

a weak *antacid used to relieve indigestion. It is taken alone or combined with other compounds in mixtures, powders, and tablets.... magnesium carbonate

a magnesium salt used as an osmotic *laxative to treat constipation. It is also combined with *aluminium hydroxide in antacid preparations.... magnesium hydroxide