Short Answer: If you accidentally drink expired magnesium citrate, you may have diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, or sweating.
Magnesium citrate is a magnesium preparation in salt form with citric acid in a 1:1 ratio.
It is a laxative that is used to treat occasional constipation by increasing water in the intestines.
If you accidentally drink expired magnesium citrate, you may experience some side effects such as diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, or sweating.
These side effects are usually mild and temporary, but they can be more severe if you drink a large amount of expired magnesium citrate or if you have other medical conditions.
This is because magnesium citrate contains magnesium and citrate ions.
Magnesium is a mineral that is important for many functions in the body, such as muscle and nerve activity, bone health, and heart rhythm.
Citrate is an organic acid that can act as a chelating agent, meaning it can bind to other metals and minerals in the body.
Magnesium can have positive effects such as relieving constipation, supporting muscle and nerve function, strengthening bones, and regulating heart rate.
However, too much magnesium can cause diarrhea, low blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, confusion, or coma.
Citrate can have negative effects such as lowering the pH of the blood, causing metabolic acidosis, or interfering with the absorption of other minerals such as calcium or iron.
It is uncommon to drink expired magnesium citrate due to its unpleasant taste and smell.
Most people use magnesium citrate only when needed for constipation relief and follow the directions on the label or from their doctor.
Magnesium citrate usually has an expiration date of two years after its manufacturing date, but it should be discarded 24 hours after opening the bottle to prevent contamination.
You can prevent serious complications from drinking expired magnesium citrate by checking the expiration date before using it and storing it properly in a cool and dry place.
If you experience any severe or persistent side effects from drinking expired magnesium citrate, you should seek medical attention immediately.
You may need to receive fluids, electrolytes, or antidotes to reverse the effects of magnesium or citrate overdose.
To avoid accidental drinking of expired magnesium citrate, you should keep it out of reach of children and pets.
You should also label the bottle clearly with the date of opening and dispose of it safely after 24 hours.
You should not use magnesium citrate for longer than recommended by your doctor or if you have any contraindications such as kidney disease, bowel obstruction, or allergy.
Finally, remember, magnesium citrate is a laxative that should be used only for short-term relief of constipation. It is not a substitute for a healthy diet and lifestyle that can prevent constipation in the first place.
You should drink plenty of water, eat more fiber-rich foods, exercise regularly, and avoid stress to maintain a normal bowel function⁸.