Can Magnesium Effectively Reduce Migraines?

Migraines affect about one in seven people worldwide, with a higher frequency among women. These intense headache attacks, often accompanied by nausea and increased sensitivity to light or noise, significantly impair quality of life. Given the limitations of conventional drug treatments, which can cause significant side effects or be poorly tolerated, non-pharmacological approaches are generating increasing interest.

Magnesium, an essential mineral for the proper functioning of the nervous system, plays a key role in regulating neuronal activity. It acts in particular by blocking NMDA receptors, which are involved in pain transmission and the phenomenon of cortical spreading depression, a process linked to migraines with aura. A magnesium deficiency can thus promote the onset of attacks by increasing neuronal excitability.

Several clinical trials have evaluated the effectiveness of oral magnesium in preventing migraines. The results show that certain forms of magnesium, such as citrate or oxide, significantly reduce the frequency and intensity of attacks at daily doses of 500 to 600 mg. For example, one study revealed that magnesium citrate supplementation reduced the number of monthly migraines more markedly than a placebo. Another study confirmed that magnesium oxide was as effective as sodium valproate, a commonly prescribed medication, but with fewer serious side effects.

However, not all types of magnesium are equal. Certain formulations, such as magnesium aspartate, have not shown a benefit superior to placebo, highlighting the importance of choosing a form that is well absorbed by the body. The most common side effects remain digestive, such as diarrhea or stomach aches, generally mild and temporary.

These observations suggest that magnesium, particularly in the form of citrate or oxide, represents a promising option for preventing migraines, either alone or in combination with other treatments. Its use could be particularly useful for people who do not tolerate conventional medications or are seeking a natural alternative. However, its effectiveness depends on the dose, the form used, and the regularity of intake, which requires personalized monitoring.

Information and Sources

Scientific Reference

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s41983-026-01150-z

Title: Efficacy of magnesium supplementation in the prophylaxis of migraine: a systematic review of clinical trials comparing oral magnesium to placebo or standard care

Journal: The Egyptian Journal of Neurology, Psychiatry and Neurosurgery

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Authors: Habiblah Jagunmolu; Emmanuel Oyetola; Yusuff Lawal; Samuel Oyelude; Oluwatomisin Ogunsola; Abdulmujeeb Oladeji; Salahudeen Ogundipe; Mukhtar Ibrahim; Dhikrat Ajibade; Oluwadamilola Ariyo; Kamil Ajagbe