Guide
Magnesium — types and what it is used for
Prepared by the LekCheck team · Last reviewed: 2026-07-25 · How we create our content
Magnesium is a mineral important for normal muscle and nerve function, energy metabolism and bone strength. Magnesium supplements are popular for muscle cramps, tiredness and tension, and different magnesium salts are absorbed and tolerated differently. Below we explain the types and what they are used for; choose an ingredient to see available products and prices. For persistent complaints, consult a doctor.
This guide was prepared by the LekCheck team and has not been reviewed by a doctor or pharmacist. This article is for general information only and is not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Do not start, stop, or change any treatment without consulting a doctor or pharmacist.
What magnesium does
Magnesium takes part in hundreds of processes in the body — muscle and nerve function, energy metabolism, maintaining bones. It comes mainly from food (nuts, seeds, wholegrains, green vegetables). A supplement is considered with insufficient intake or increased need, but does not replace a varied diet.
Types of magnesium
Magnesium in supplements comes as different salts — for example magnesium citrate, oxide, malate, glycinate or lactate. They differ in elemental magnesium content and in tolerability: some forms are absorbed more easily and less often cause stomach discomfort, while oxide has lower absorption. It is often combined with vitamin B6.
When supplements are used
Magnesium supplements are used with increased need or insufficient intake, and a popular use is for muscle cramps and a feeling of tiredness and tension. The effect is individual. For symptoms that do not respond, or for frequent cramps, it is good to look for the cause together with a doctor.
Caution and tolerability
Magnesium supplements can cause loose stools, especially at higher doses and with some forms (e.g. oxide, citrate). People with kidney disease and those taking certain medicines should consult a doctor before use. Follow the recommended dose and do not combine several magnesium products without accounting for the total amount.
Commonly used active ingredients
Pick an ingredient to see products and prices.
Related categories
Products with current prices
Lowest prices from online pharmacies in this guide's categories — cheapest first.
ДЖАНКАР ЛАКОЧИСТИТЕЛ 100МЛ
ДЖАНКАР · 100МЛ
ВИТАМИН Б12 ампули 100 гами 1 мл. * 1
SOPHARMA · 12 ампули
БИЛКА КРЕМ ЗА РЪЦЕ И НОКТИ ЧЕРВЕНО ВИНО 65 МЛ
БИЛКА · 65 МЛ
МОКРИ КЪРПИ СМАЙЛ 15БР АНТИБАКТЕРИАЛНИ С ВИТАМИНИ
МОКРИ · 15БР
БЕБЕВИТА / BEBEVITA ПЮРЕ ЯБЪЛКА И БАНАН 190ГР 1001
БЕБЕВИТА · 190ГР
ЛАВЕНА / LAVENA САПУН МОЯТА ПРИРОДА С МАСЛИНА X 75ГР
LAVENA · 75ГР
Frequently asked questions
Which type of magnesium is best?
There is no single 'best' type for everyone — the choice depends on the goal and tolerability. Forms such as citrate, malate or glycinate are usually well absorbed and less often irritate the stomach, while oxide contains more magnesium but with lower absorption. Ask a pharmacist which product suits you.
Does magnesium help with muscle cramps?
Magnesium is popular for muscle cramps and some people report relief, but results are individual and not for everyone. Frequent or severe cramps can have other causes too, so for persistent complaints it is good to seek a doctor's assessment rather than relying on a supplement alone.
When is it best to take magnesium?
Magnesium can be taken at any time of day, preferably with food to reduce the risk of stomach discomfort. Some people prefer it in the evening. More important than the exact time is regularity and a reasonable dose — follow the instructions of the specific product.
Can magnesium cause diarrhoea?
Yes, at higher doses and with some forms (e.g. magnesium oxide or citrate) magnesium can have a mild laxative effect. If this happens, reducing the dose or changing the form usually helps. If unsure, consult a pharmacist.
Why is magnesium often combined with vitamin B6?
Vitamin B6 takes part in metabolism and is sometimes added to magnesium products, as some data suggest it may support its absorption or action. The combination is common in over-the-counter supplements. The choice of a specific product is best agreed with a pharmacist according to your needs.