Can I take Esomeprazole and Magnesium together?

Why this happens

Esomeprazole reduces stomach acid. The body needs a certain level of acidity to absorb magnesium from food and supplements efficiently. Over time, this reduced absorption can deplete the body's magnesium stores. Furthermore, magnesium-containing antacids can physically bind to or change the environment for esomeprazole, potentially reducing its effectiveness if taken at the exact same time.

What you should do

If you are taking esomeprazole long-term, your doctor may want to check your magnesium levels with a blood test. If you are taking a magnesium supplement or antacid, try to leave a gap of at least 2 hours between taking it and your esomeprazole dose. Seek medical advice if you experience muscle twitches, tremors, or a racing heart.

Important precautions

Severe diarrhoea

Esomeprazole can increase your risk of serious bowel infections, such as C. difficile. If you develop severe or persistent watery diarrhoea, fever, or stomach pain, contact your doctor immediately.

Long-term use (over 1 year)

Taking this medicine for a long time can lead to weakened bones (osteoporosis) and increased risk of fractures, as well as low magnesium levels in your blood. Your doctor may need to monitor your mineral levels.

Kidney disease

If you have kidney problems, you must not take magnesium supplements without medical supervision, as your kidneys may not be able to clear excess magnesium from your blood, leading to toxic levels.

Food and drink warnings

Alcohol

While alcohol does not directly interact with esomeprazole, it can increase stomach acid production and irritate the stomach lining, which may worsen the symptoms you are taking esomeprazole to treat.

Dairy products and high-calcium foods

Large amounts of calcium (found in milk, cheese, and yoghurt) can interfere with how your body absorbs magnesium. If you are taking a magnesium supplement, try to avoid taking it at the same time as a high-calcium meal or calcium supplement.

Using other medicines

Taking multiple medicines? Our Medicines Interaction Checker helps you check whether your prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements are safe to take together. Simply search for your medicines to see potential interactions and what to do about them.

Disclaimer

This information is for general educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your GP, pharmacist, or another qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your medications. Individual circumstances may vary, and only a healthcare professional who knows your medical history can provide personalised guidance.