Magnesium

Abstract

Abstract Magnesium is an alkaline earth metal that is an essential element for human life. Magnesium compounds have both pharmacologic and industrial uses. Oral medicinal formulations of magnesium include magnesium citrate, magnesium oxide, and magnesium hydroxide, indicated primarily for catharsis or gastric acid neutralization. In industrial settings, magnesium is found in metal alloys, often with aluminum to produce light and strong materials. Acute magnesium toxicity typically results from excessive pharmacologic use and may manifest as diminished deep tendon reflexes, weakness, hypotension, and cardiac arrhythmias. Acute human toxicity from industrial exposure is most often the result of inhalation of magnesium oxide fumes manifesting as a spontaneously resolving influenza‐like illness for about 24 h after cessation of exposure, so‐called “metal fume fever.” Studies of chronic magnesium exposure in occupational settings are limited but do not appear to show chronic toxicity related to magnesium. Occupational exposure limits for magnesium are based on studies of magnesium oxide inhalation and are intended to protect against metal fume fever. Much of the foundation of this chapter is credited to Dr. Mary Beth Genter, who authored The Metals chapter in the fourth edition of Patty's Industrial Hygiene and Toxicology.