Asmag – action, indications, contraindications and dosage

Proven content

Asmag is a drug that is used in the case of a magnesium deficiency in the body. It is an over-the-counter preparation, and its active substance is magnesium in the form of hydrogen aspartate. Magnesium is an element necessary for the proper functioning of our body and is involved in numerous metabolic changes. How does Asmag work and who should use it? Are there any contraindications to the use of Asmag? How to dose Asmag? Does this preparation interact with other medications used?

Asmag – basic information

Asmag is a preparation that is available over the counter in packages containing 50 tablets. Asmag are white, round tablets, with “As” debossed on one side. It is a drug used for the purpose of replenishing magnesium deficiency in the body. The active substance of the preparation is magnesium.

Magnesium is one of the key elements in our body. It is responsible, inter alia, for the proper functioning of the immune, blood and digestive systems. In cases of magnesium deficiency, the risk of developing diseases or ailments such as insomnia, depression, dizziness, anxiety, asthma and type 2 diabetes increases.

The producer and distributor of Asmag is Farmapol. Farmapol is a Polish manufacturer of pharmaceuticals with its headquarters in Poznań. Among the medicinal preparations produced by this company are Zincas, Klarin, Aspafar, Kalivit, Topinulin and Kardiostabil.

Why is magnesium important for our body and what are the consequences of its deficiency? Check: Magnesium

Asmag – composition and operation

The most important ingredient in Asmag is magnesium in the form of hydrogen aspartate. Magnesium is an extremely important element for the good condition of our body. As it turns out, it is the second most important intracellular cation next to potassium.

Magnesium is involved in the synthesis and is an element of the use of energy-rich bonds – AGT and GTP. This element influences the activity of enzymes responsible for the reaction of transferring the phosphoryl group. It is also an important element in the synthesis of H2 and electron carriers, such as NADH2, FAD or coenzyme A. It should not be forgotten that magnesium activates about 300 enzymes of carbohydrate, protein and fat metabolism, nucleic compounds, as well as redox reactions.

Magnesium is also the primary regulator of the cell cycle. This element forms complex compounds with phospholipids, making it an integral part of the structures of cellular, intracellular, mitochondrial and reticular membranes. In addition, this metal stabilizes ribosomes, lysosomes and mitochondria. Without this element, the physical integrity of the double helix of DNA and chromosomes would not be achieved.

Magnesium also has a calming effect, therefore its deficiency causes diffuse neuromuscular hyperactivity in patients. This element protects the heart muscle by preventing hypoxia. It also protects the walls of blood vessels, acting in opposition to excess calcium and changes in connective tissue. Its role is also anticoagulant, which is related to the stabilizing effect of magnesium on blood platelets. Magnesium is important for proper bone development and mineralization.

It should also be remembered that magnesium interacts with hormones, therefore it is often necessary in their synthesis, storage and release. Its operation is illustrated by numerous defense mechanisms. Especially when counteracting the effects of stress, hypoxia, inflammation or allergies.

In summary, the active ingredient in Asmag is magnesium hydrogen aspartate tetrahydrate. One tablet contains 20 mg of magnesium ions in the form of 300 mg of magnesium hydrogen aspartate tetrahydrate.

The other ingredients of this preparation are: lactose monohydrate, potato starch, colloidal silica, magnesium stearate, dextrin, sodium carboxymethyl starch (type C) and methyl cellulose.

What is worth knowing about magnesium? Check: Magnesium – a drug to supplement the body’s deficiencies

Asmag – absorption and metabolism

An important aspect when using Asmag is knowing how magnesium is absorbed. After administration of the drug, the element is absorbed very slowly in the small intestine, this process is estimated at approx. 30%. Magnesium absorption is enhanced by the action of calcitriol. The concentration of magnesium in the patient’s blood is 0,65–1,25 mmol / l, while in the cell it is about 10 times higher.

Approx. 55% of the magnesium in the blood remains in the ionized form, 30% of the element is bound to proteins, while the remaining 15% remains in complex compounds with anions.

Magnesium is mainly excreted in the urine and is partially reabsorbed.

What does a magnesium deficiency result in? Check: Magnesium deficiency among Poles

Asmag – indications for use

An indication for the use of Asmag is diagnosed deficiencies of this element. What are the causes of a magnesium deficiency? First of all, the following are indicated:

1. leaching of magnesium as a result of frequent drinking of coffee, tea or alcohol;
2. long-term antibiotic therapy;
3. taking diuretics;
4. use of hormonal contraception;
5. stress and prolonged nervous situations that reduce the absorption of magnesium;
6. diseases of the small intestine and kidneys;
7. magnesium deficiency in the diet;
8. excessive loss of an element from the body as a result of diarrhea or vomiting.

In what form is magnesium best absorbed? Check: Break the vicious cycle of magnesium deficiency – choose the best digestible form!

Asmag – contraindications to use

Despite its effectiveness in combating magnesium deficiency, Asmag cannot be used by every patient.

Asmag cannot be used in a few cases. These are:

1. hypersensitivity to any component of the drug;
2. hypermagnesaemia (excess magnesium in the blood);
3. severe renal failure (creatinine clearance <30 ml / min);
4. atrioventricular conduction disorders (block);
5. bradycardia (too slow heart beat);
6. myasthenia gravis (a rare disease accompanied by muscle relaxation);
7. diarrhea;
8. treatment with antibiotics;
9. intolerance to certain sugars.

How does magnesium affect our brain? Check: Magnesium necessary for the brain

Asmag – precautions

Before and during the use of Asmag, follow the precautions included in the package leaflet.

Among the precautionary measures, it is indicated that:

1. do not exceed the recommended daily dose of the preparation;
2. to maintain proper health, one should follow a varied diet and lead a healthy lifestyle;
3. the drug cannot be used as a substitute (replacement) for a varied diet;
4. the preparation should be stored at room temperature;
5. the preparation should be protected from light and moisture;
6. the drug should be stored out of the reach of small children;
7. expired medications should not be used. The expiry date refers to the last day of that month.
8. Medicines should not be disposed of via wastewater or household waste. Ask your pharmacist how to throw away medicines no longer required.

What should you know about proper drug storage? Check: Medications that are stored wrongly are poisonous

Asmag – correct dosage

Always use Asmag exactly as described in this leaflet or as directed by your doctor or pharmacist. Always consult a doctor if you have any doubts. Asmag and any magnesium supplements should not be used without prior diagnosis. The decision to start taking Asmag should never be done solely on the grounds of suspected magnesium deficiency.

Correct dose of Asmag depends on the age of the patient. Asmag dose for adults is taking 3 tablets 4 times a day. The drug should be taken orally after a meal with water.

In the case of children, the dose is much lower. Asmag can be given to children 1 tablet 2 to 3 times a day.

How to take medication correctly? Check: How to take medications effectively?

Asmag – the effects of an overdose

You should not take a dose higher than that indicated in the leaflet. In the event of taking more than the recommended dose of the drug, consult a physician or pharmacist. Symptoms of drug overdose such as diarrhea may occur. In the event of an overdose with Asmag, the antidote is iv calcium salts, eg 2,5–5 mmol of calcium gluconate.

What are the causes of excess magnesium in the body and how to recognize this condition. Check: Magnesium excess – causes, symptoms

Asmag – side effects

Asmag, like any other drug, may cause side effects in patients. It is important to report any suspected adverse reactions after authorization of the medicinal product so that the benefit / risk balance of the medicinal product can be monitored.

The frequency classification of adverse body reactions (ADRs) is based on the following principles: very common (≥1 / 10), common (≥1 / 100 to <1/10), uncommon (≥1 / 1 to <000/1), rare (≥ 100 / 1 to <10 / 000), very rare (<1 / 1), not known (cannot be estimated from the available data).

Gastrointestinal disturbances, including nausea, vomiting and diarrhea, may occur with the use of Asmag.

What is magnesium sulfate and when is it worth reaching for? Check: Magnesium sulfate – how it works and what it is used for

Asmag and pregnancy and breastfeeding

The use of any medications or dietary supplements during pregnancy requires consultation with the attending physician. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, think you may be pregnant or are planning to have a baby, ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice before taking Asmag. At recommended doses, Asmag can be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

What is worth knowing about proper supplementation during pregnancy? Check: Conscious choices. Diet and supplementation in pregnancy

Asmag – interactions with other drugs

Before taking Asmag, tell your doctor or pharmacist about all drugs you are taking or have recently taken, and about any drugs you plan to take.

Remember that Asmag should not be used simultaneously with:

1. tetracycline antibiotics;
2. oral hydroxycoumarin derivative anticoagulants (these drugs prevent blood clots from forming);
3. medications or dietary supplements containing phosphate, calcium and iron.

When used together with Asmag, these drugs reduce its absorption from the gastrointestinal tract, thus reducing its effectiveness.

The significant interactions of Asmag with other preparations include:

1. Asmag and drugs from the list below: Quintor, Cetraxal, Cetraxal Plus, Ciprobay, Ciprinol – Ir, Ciloxan – Ir, Ciprofloxacin Infomed, Cipronex Ophta, Ciphin, Cipro, Ciprofloxacino Normon, Cetraxal Plus – Irox, Ciprum, Servrifl. Ciloxan, Ciprofloxacin -1a Pharma (Ciprolek), Ciprofloxacin Kabi, Ciprofloxacin -1a Pharma, Ciprofloxacinum Claris, Ciprofloxacin Sandoz, Cipropol, Ciprobay 400, Cipronex, Ciproquin – teprofloxacin preparations contain magnesium and cyprofloxacin. Magnesium reduces the absorption of this compound from the gastrointestinal tract. As a result, the effectiveness of these drugs in fighting bacteria is significantly limited;
2. Asmag and Quofenix – these preparations contain magnesium and deflafloxacin. Magnesium reduces the absorption of deflafloxacin from the gastrointestinal tract, which reduces the medicinal properties of the preparation;
3. Asmag and Floxamic Neo, Floxitrat, Avelox – these preparations contain magnesium and moxifloxacin. Magnesium reduces the absorption of moxifloxacin from the gastrointestinal tract, which reduces the medicinal properties of the preparation;
4. Asmag and Nolicin, Chibroxin, Chibroxin – Ir – these preparations contain magnesium and norfloxacin. Magnesium reduces the absorption of norfloxacin from the gastrointestinal tract, which reduces the medicinal properties of the preparation;
5. Asmag and Abaktal, Pefloxacin Richter – these preparations contain magnesium and pefloxacin. Magnesium reduces the absorption of pefloxacin from the gastrointestinal tract, which reduces the medicinal properties of the preparation;
6. Asmag and Chinoplus, Prixina – these preparations contain magnesium and prulifloxacin. Magnesium reduces the absorption of prulifloxacin from the gastrointestinal tract, which reduces the medicinal properties of the preparation;
7. Asmag and Alfadiol, Alfakalcydol If, Devisol (Calcifediol) – these preparations contain magnesium and alfacalcidol. Concomitant use of both drugs may result in excessive levels of magnesium in the blood. In case of weakening of the organism, breathing problems, too low blood pressure, disturbances in heart rhythm, dizziness or other unusual and disturbing symptoms, contact your doctor immediately;
8. Asmag and Sumamed Forte, Sumamed, Canbiox – these preparations contain magnesium and azithromycin. The use of both drugs at the same time may reduce the effect of azithromycin, thus increasing the risk of worsening of disease symptoms;
9. Asmag and Levofloxacin Fp, Xyvelam, Levofloxacin Sanovel – these preparations contain magnesium and levofloxacin. Concomitant use of these drugs may reduce the effectiveness of the antibacterial activity of levofloxacin;
10. Asmag and Revolade Novartis, Revolade – these preparations contain magnesium and eltrombopag. Magnesium can significantly reduce absorption and thus reduce the effect of eltrombopag;
11. Asmag and Plaquenil, Plaquenil – Ir, Fenle – these preparations contain magnesium and hydroxychloroquine. The simultaneous use of both drugs may reduce the absorption of hydroxychloroquine from the gastrointestinal tract. Thus, its action will be weaker and less effective;
12. Asmag and Bonefos, Lodronat – these preparations contain magnesium and clodronate. Concomitant use of these drugs may reduce the absorption of clodronate from the gastrointestinal tract and thus reduce its effect;
13. Asmag and Cellcept, Myclausen, Mycophenolate Mofetil Alkem – these preparations contain magnesium and mycophenolate mofetil. The effect of concomitant use of these drugs is that the absorption of mycophenolate mofetil may be reduced, and therefore its effect may be reduced. In this case, the risk of transplant rejection increases.

Which drugs should never be combined with each other? Check: Dangerous interactions

Asmag — dinner

The price of the drug Asmag may differ depending on the town where the preparation will be purchased or the selected pharmacy. It can be estimated that an average of PLN 50-7 for a package of Asmag containing 10 tablets is paid.

Why is it still worth supplementing with magnesium? Read: Magnesium in relieving severe symptoms of stress and nervous exhaustion in the time of a pandemic.