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Role of magnesium supplementation in the treatment of depression: A randomized clinical trial
Since it is not clear what role magnesium supplementation plays in the management of depressive symptoms, this 2017 trial investigated the effects of over-the-counter magnesium chloride on the symptoms of depression. The study compared 6 weeks of 240mg (milligrams) magnesium per day to 6 weeks of no treatment (control). The participants were adults with an average age of 52, and with mild to moderate depressive symptoms. Symptoms were monitored through twice-weekly phone calls. In addition to depression, everyone was assessed on signs of anxiety, adverse effects, and likelihood to use magnesium supplements in the future. Overall, there was a clinically significant net improvement in Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) scores and net improvement in Generalized Anxiety Disorders-7 scores, following the 6-week magnesium supplement intervention. These supplements were well tolerated, and participants stated that they would take magnesium again in the future. Similar trends were seen regardless of age, gender, baseline severity of depression, baseline magnesium level, or use of antidepressant treatments. The impact of these supplements were noticed within 2 weeks. Magnesium acts quickly and effectively in improving mild-to-moderate depression in adults, while demonstrating a good safety profile. [NPID: magnesium, nutrients, micronutrients, nutrition, minerals, multivitamins, supplements, supplementation, depression]
Year: 2017
