What is Epsom Salt? Uses, warnings & side effects
Epsom salt is magnesium sulfate, a mineral that has several medical uses. This article will only focus on products labeled “Epsom salt.” More information about magnesium sulfate medications can be found here. Taking Epsom salt orally can help relieve constipation. Topical Epsom salt can help soothe aches, pains, bruises, joint stiffness, insect bites, or muscle tension.
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Epsom Salt overview
BRAND NAMES:
Barton’s Spray’n Go Epsom Salts, Dr. Kinash, Dr. Teal’s, Epsal Ointment, Epsoak, epso-MAX, Epsom-It, Epsoothe
Generic Names:
Magnesium sulfate
Uses:
Treats constipation or used topically for minor sprains, bruises, muscle aches, muscle tension, joint stiffness, tired feet, or insect bites.
Therapeutic Classes:
Anti-inflammatory, saline laxative
Forms:
Granules, cream, lotion, ointment, gel, spray, bath foam, roller ball, shower stick
How it’s taken:
By mouth, on the skin
What is Epsom Salt used for?
Epsom salt is taken by mouth to relieve the symptoms of constipation. Used as a soak, compress, or topical formulation, Epsom salt is used to soothe mild pain or stiffness, treat insect bites, or reduce muscle tension.
What form(s) does Epsom Salt come in?
Granules or powder for solution
100% magnesium sulfate
Cream
10% (100 mg magnesium sulfate/1 g cream)
20%
Concentrations are usually unspecified
Lotion
10%
20%
Concentrations are usually unspecified
Ointment
Concentrations are usually unspecified
Gel
Concentrations are usually unspecified
Spray
Concentrations unspecified
What are common Epsom Salt dosages?
For constipation:
In adults and children 12 years of age and older: 2–4 level teaspoons of granules or powder dissolved in 8 oz. of water
In children younger than 12 years of age: 1–2 level teaspoons of granules dissolved in 8 oz. of water
For sprains, muscle aches, joint stiffness, muscle tension, or insect bites:
As a soak: Dissolve 2 cups of Epsom salt in one gallon of warm water OR dissolve in a warm bath using the instructions on the package
As a cream, gel, ointment, spray, rollerball, or shower stick: Apply as needed to the affected area
How to take Epsom Salt
Follow the instructions and doses found on the Epsom salt package.
If Epsom salt is advised by a doctor, follow the doctor’s instructions. Do not use more than directed.
How to use Epsom salts as a laxative:
Dissolve the powder in 8 ounces (oz) of water.
Follow the dosing instructions on the package or given by a doctor.
Add lemon juice to the mixture to improve the taste.
Do not take more than two doses per day.
How to use Epsom salts as a soak:
Dissolve the powder in warm water to use as a soaking solution or bath.
Use this medicine only on your skin.
Rinse it off right away if it gets on a cut or scrape.
Do not get the medicine in your eyes, nose, or mouth.
How to use Epsom salts as a compress:
Dissolve the powder in warm water.
Soak a bandage or cloth in the warm water.
Apply for 30 minutes up to 3 times per day.
How to use Epsom salt creams, lotions, gels, and sprays:
Use this medicine only on the skin.
Follow the instructions on the package label.
Apply to the affected area as needed.
Do not allow it to get in your eyes, nose, or mouth.
Do not put it on open cuts.
Follow the storage instructions written on the label.
Epsom salt granules should be stored at room temperature in a dry and airtight container.
What to do if you miss a dose of Epsom Salt
If taking Epsom salts as a laxative:
Take the missed dose unless it’s almost time for the next dose.
If so, skip the missed dose and take the next dose as scheduled.
Do not take two doses to make up for a missed dose.
If using Epsom salts topically, apply a missed dose when remembered.
Epsom Salt contraindications - Who shouldn't take Epsom Salt?
This medicine is generally considered safe for most people.
Do not use Epsom salt if you have had an allergic reaction to magnesium sulfate or to any other ingredient in an Epsom salt product.
Epsom Salt warnings
Talk to a doctor before using Epsom salt as a laxative if you have:
Kidney disease
A magnesium-restricted diet
Abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting
Been using a laxative for longer than 1 week
Had a sudden change in bowel habits that lasted longer than 2 weeks
If Epsom salt is being used as a laxative, stop taking Epsom salts and talk to a doctor if you experience:
No bowel movement after taking a dose
Rectal bleeding
For Epsom salt soaks, talk to a doctor if you:
Are pregnant
Have diabetes
Have open wounds, skin inflammation, skin infection, or severe burns
Stop using Epsom salt soaks if you get:
Skin irritation
A skin infection
Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse.
Keep all Epsom salt products out of the reach of children.
Epsom Salt interactions & what to avoid when taking Epsom Salt
When taken orally, magnesium can interfere with the body’s absorption of certain drugs, making them less effective. These drugs must be taken at least two hours before or two hours after a dose of Epsom salt. These drugs include:
Fluoroquinolone antibiotics
The thyroid medication levothyroxine
The heart medication digoxin
Epsom Salt side effects - How does Epsom Salt make you feel?
Serious side effects
Talk to a doctor if you notice any signs or symptoms of a possible serious side effect, including:
Skin infection (topical use)
Severe diarrhea (oral use)
Confusion, dizziness, irregular heartbeat, low blood pressure, muscle weakness, sleepiness (oral use)
Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
Less serious side effects
Diarrhea (oral use)
Skin irritation (topical use)
Facial flushing and warmth (oral use)
Sources:
Drug interactions with vitamins and minerals, U.S. Pharmacist
Epsom salt magnesium sulfate granule drug information, DailyMed (NIH National Library of Medicine)
Magnesium sulfate, Mayo Clinic
Magnesium sulfate, StatPearls
Should you take an Epsom salt bath?, Cleveland Clinic
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