Drexel University College of Medicine

Diseases and Conditions

Hypomagnesemia

Definition

Hypomagnesemia means low levels of magnesium in the blood.

Alternative Names

Low blood magnesium; Magnesium - low

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

Several conditions can cause hypomagnesemia, including:

• Alcoholism
• Chronic diarrhea
• High blood calcium levels
• Hyperaldosteronism
• Malabsorption
• Malnutrition
• Use of certain medications including amphotericin, cisplatin, and diuretics
• Excessive urination (polyuria)

References

Yu ASL. Disorders of magnesium and phosphorous. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007:chap 120.

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