Magnesium and Migraines

Migraines are among the most common neurological conditions, affecting over a billion people worldwide each year.

A migraine is a type of headache characterized by recurring attacks of throbbing or pulsating pain, typically affecting one side of the head. Other symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light, sound, or smells.

Magnesium is an essential mineral involved in many body processes, such as muscle and nerve function, regulating blood sugar and blood pressure, and energy production. Research has linked low blood magnesium levels to migraines, leading some people to use magnesium as a preventive measure.

The Connection Between Magnesium and Migraines

Magnesium plays a crucial role in keeping the body functioning properly. It supports the immune system, creates energy and proteins, maintains nerve and muscle function, regulates blood pressure, and more.

Research suggests that magnesium supplementation may be particularly effective for migraines with aura—symptoms like visual changes or sensory disturbances that occur before a migraine attack.

Magnesium may help prevent migraines by:

  • Blocking pain signals in the brain
  • Preventing blood vessel narrowing in the brain
  • Reducing brain signals that lead to aura
  • Preventing menstrual-related migraines

Studies have found that people with migraines often have lower magnesium levels than those without migraines.

How To Use Magnesium for Migraines

Magnesium oxide is the most commonly used form for migraine prevention. A typical starting dose is 400 milligrams per day, with a maximum recommended dose of 600 milligrams daily. Because this exceeds the general tolerable upper intake level of 350 milligrams, higher doses should only be taken under a healthcare provider’s supervision.

Side Effects and Risks

At recommended doses, magnesium may cause side effects like abdominal cramps, nausea, and diarrhea. Very high doses, kidney problems, or older age can cause magnesium to build up in the body, leading to serious side effects such as:

  • Irregular heartbeat
  • Low blood pressure
  • Breathing difficulties
  • Muscle weakness
  • Cardiac arrest

Given these risks, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider before starting magnesium supplements, especially at higher doses.

Drug Interactions

Magnesium supplements can interact with certain medications, including:

  • Antibiotics: Magnesium can interfere with the body's ability to absorb some antibiotics.
  • Osteoporosis medications (bisphosphonates): Magnesium may reduce absorption if taken too closely together.
  • Diuretics: These can either increase or decrease magnesium levels.
  • Proton pump inhibitors: Long-term use can lead to magnesium deficiency.
  • Certain heart medications: Combining magnesium with these drugs can increase the risk of low blood pressure.

While magnesium is generally considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding, it’s still important to consult a healthcare provider.

How Effective Is Magnesium for Migraine Prevention?

Research shows that magnesium supplementation can help prevent migraines, especially in people with lower magnesium levels. Some studies have found magnesium oxide to be as effective as certain prescription treatments without serious side effects. Other studies found magnesium effective for short-term prevention of migraines.

Overall, magnesium is seen as a relatively safe and low-risk option for migraine prevention.

Other Ways To Relieve Migraines

Migraine treatments fall into two categories: relieving pain during an attack (acute treatments) and preventing future attacks (preventive treatments).

Your healthcare provider can help you choose the best combination of treatments based on the severity and frequency of your migraines, your other health conditions, and your medication use.

Pain-Relieving Treatments

These are taken during a migraine attack and include:

  • Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen
  • Triptans, like sumatriptan and rizatriptan
  • Ergot alkaloids like dihydroergotamine
  • Gepants, including ubrogepant and rimegepant
  • Reyvow (lasmiditan)

Preventative Treatments

Preventive options aim to reduce how often and how severely migraines occur. These can include:

  • Blood pressure medications, like propranolol
  • Antidepressants such as fluoxetine and nortriptyline
  • Antiepileptic drugs like topiramate and gabapentin
  • Anti-CGRP monoclonal antibodies, including erenumab
  • Botox injections, which are approved specifically for chronic migraines (defined as 15 or more migraines per month)

Lifestyle Modifications

Managing migraines can also involve lifestyle changes, such as:

  • Identifying and avoiding migraine triggers
  • Getting 150–300 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week
  • Maintaining a healthy weight
  • Avoiding alcohol and tobacco
  • Staying well-hydrated
  • Limiting or avoiding caffeine
  • Reducing stress
  • Getting enough restful sleep

When To See a Healthcare Provider

Finding the right migraine treatment can be complex due to the wide range of available options. A healthcare provider can guide you through the best strategies based on your individual needs.

Although magnesium is a natural supplement, it does carry some risks at higher doses. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting magnesium for migraines.

If you are taking prescribed migraine medications, follow your provider’s instructions carefully. Taking too much or stopping medications suddenly can lead to rebound headaches, worsening migraines, or withdrawal symptoms.

A Quick Review

Migraines involve recurring attacks of throbbing or pulsating pain, usually on one side of the head. Low magnesium levels have been linked to migraines, suggesting supplementation may help prevent attacks.

Magnesium oxide is a popular option for migraine prevention, but it’s important to use it safely under a healthcare provider’s supervision. Besides magnesium, other medications and lifestyle changes can also help manage and prevent migraines effectively.