Iron absorption can be inhibited by magnesium laxatives, such as magnesium oxide, according to in vitro studies. There is no evidence that taking oral iron supplements with laxatives is a health issue. A 28-year-old woman with anorexia nervosa was admitted to our hospital to determine her refractory iron deficiency anemia (IDA): She had been sick for years, but fecal occult blood tests were negative. We suspect her IDA from iron malabsorption due to magnesium laxative overuse. The overuse and oral iron replacement therapy was switched to the intravenous route by a psychoeducational intervention.
Does Magnesium Interfere With Iron Absorption – Answer & Related Questions
Background: Although in vitro studies show that iron absorption can be limited by magnesium laxatives such as magnesium oxide, taking oral iron supplements with magnesium laxatives is not a medical issue.