Magnesium Citrate for Migraines: Does It Help?
Quick Summary: Research suggests that taking magnesium citrate might help prevent migraines. A review of studies found that a daily dose of 600mg could reduce the number of migraine attacks for some people.
Can Magnesium Citrate Prevent Migraines?
This research looked at several studies to see if magnesium citrate could help prevent migraines. The review found "Grade C evidence" which means it possibly helps. Some studies showed a reduction in migraine attacks and days, while others didn't.
What The Research Found
- Magnesium Citrate Dosage: The studies used 600mg of magnesium citrate per day.
- Effectiveness: Some studies showed a significant decrease in migraine frequency.
- Overall: The review suggests magnesium citrate might be helpful, but more research is needed.
Study Details
- Who was studied: Adults aged 18-65 who experienced migraines.
- How long: The studies lasted for varying lengths, from a few weeks to several months.
- What they took: Participants took 600mg of magnesium citrate daily.
What This Means For You
If you suffer from migraines, magnesium citrate could be a helpful addition to your routine. It's generally considered safe and affordable. However:
- Talk to your doctor: Before starting any new supplement, especially if you're already taking medication.
- Don't expect miracles: The research suggests it might help, but it's not a guaranteed cure.
- Consider it as part of a plan: Magnesium citrate could be a good option alongside other migraine prevention strategies like lifestyle changes or other medications.
Study Limitations
- Not all studies agreed: Some studies showed benefits, while others didn't.
- More research needed: The review was based on a limited number of studies.
- Other factors: The studies didn't always look at things like how long people had migraines or other health conditions.
Technical Analysis Details
Key Findings
This 2018 systematic review concluded that magnesium prophylaxis, specifically magnesium dicitrate at 600 mg/day, provides Grade C evidence (possibly effective) for reducing migraine frequency. Among five trials analyzed, one of two Class I (high-quality) studies showed significant reductions in migraine attacks versus placebo, while two of three Class III (moderate-quality) trials reported statistically significant improvements in primary outcomes (migraine days and attacks). The authors highlight magnesium as a safe, cost-effective option for migraine prevention.
Study Design
The review evaluated randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials (RDBPCs) published between 1990–2016. Researchers independently searched PubMed and EMBASE using predefined terms and assessed trials involving adults (18–65 years) with migraines. Five trials met inclusion criteria, but no meta-analysis was performed. The American Academy of Neurology (AAN) evidence classification and Cochrane bias tool were used to grade studies. Primary outcomes were migraine days and attack frequency.
Dosage & Administration
A daily dose of 600 mg magnesium dicitrate was identified as the most effective regimen in the review. The supplement was administered orally, though specific dosing schedules (e.g., divided doses) were not detailed. This dose aligns with prior trials suggesting higher bioavailability of magnesium citrate/dicitrate forms compared to others.
Results & Efficacy
- Class I Trials: One study demonstrated a significant reduction in migraine attacks with magnesium vs. placebo (p < 0.05), while the other showed no benefit.
- Class III Trials: Two studies reported statistically significant decreases in migraine days and attacks (p < 0.05), though effect sizes were not quantified.
- Overall: Mixed results across trials, leading to Grade C evidence (possibly effective) per AAN criteria. No consistent improvements in secondary outcomes (e.g., pain intensity) were noted.
Limitations
- Study Heterogeneity: Trials varied in duration (4–16 weeks), dosing regimens, and magnesium formulations (e.g., citrate vs. other salts).
- Small Sample Size: Only five trials (n = 204 total participants) were analyzed, limiting statistical power.
- Risk of Bias: Lack of registration for the review and potential publication bias (negative trials may not have been published).
- Outdated Search: Studies post-2016 were excluded, and newer evidence may exist.
- Demographics: No details on gender, ethnicity, or baseline magnesium status of participants were provided.
Clinical Relevance
For migraine sufferers, this review suggests that 600 mg/day of magnesium dicitrate may serve as a safe, low-cost adjunct for prevention. However, the Grade C evidence indicates uncertainty in efficacy, warranting cautious interpretation. Clinicians might consider it for patients preferring non-pharmacological options or with mild symptoms, but it should not replace first-line therapies. Future research with larger, standardized trials is needed to confirm these findings. Users should consult healthcare providers to assess individual suitability and monitor for adverse effects (e.g., gastrointestinal discomfort).
Original Study Reference
Magnesium in Migraine Prophylaxis-Is There an Evidence-Based Rationale? A Systematic Review.
Source: PubMed
Published: 2018
📄 Read Full Study (PMID: 29131326)
