Can I take Magnesium and Ramipril together?

Why this happens

Magnesium can physically bind to ramipril in the digestive tract, making it harder for the medicine to enter your bloodstream. Furthermore, both magnesium and ramipril have blood-pressure-lowering effects (pharmacodynamic synergy), which can have an additive effect on your circulation.

What you should do

To ensure your ramipril works effectively, try to space the doses apart by at least 2 hours. If you feel dizzy, faint, or unusually tired when taking both, speak to your doctor or pharmacist. It is also a good idea to have your blood pressure checked regularly.

Important precautions

Pregnancy

Ramipril must not be taken if you are pregnant. It can cause serious injury or death to an unborn baby, particularly if used in the second and third trimesters.

Angioedema (Swelling) - ramipril

Seek immediate medical help if you experience swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, as this can be a life-threatening allergic reaction.

Kidney disease

If you have severe kidney problems, your body may not be able to remove excess magnesium, leading to dangerously high levels in the blood. Check with your doctor before use.

Food and drink warnings

Alcohol

It is best to avoid or strictly limit alcohol while taking ramipril. Alcohol can increase the blood pressure-lowering effect of ramipril, which may make you feel dizzy, lightheaded, or faint, especially when you first start the medicine or move to a higher dose.

It is best to avoid or strictly limit alcohol when taking magnesium. Alcohol acts as a diuretic, which can increase the amount of magnesium your body loses through urine, potentially making the supplement less effective. Additionally, chronic alcohol use can lead to magnesium deficiency.

Dairy products (Milk, Cheese, Yoghurt)

Avoid taking magnesium supplements at the same time as large amounts of dairy products. Dairy is high in calcium, and high doses of calcium can compete with magnesium for absorption in the gut, meaning you may not get the full benefit of your supplement. It is best to space them at least 2 hours apart.

Caffeine (Coffee, Tea, Energy drinks)

It is best to limit caffeine intake around the time you take magnesium. Like alcohol, caffeine has a mild diuretic effect and can increase the excretion of magnesium through the kidneys.

Salt substitutes (Potassium-rich)

Avoid using salt substitutes that contain potassium (such as Lo-Salt). Ramipril can increase the levels of potassium in your blood. Using these substitutes alongside your medicine can lead to dangerously high potassium levels (hyperkalaemia).

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.