Alternative Names & Classifications:
Hypomagnesemia (CLINICAL)
Description
Magnesium is a vital intracellular cation involved in over 300 enzymatic reactions, including ATP generation and neuromuscular transmission. Hypomagnesemia usually results from chronic alcoholism, gastrointestinal losses, or renal wasting rather than simple dietary lack. It profoundly destabilizes cell membrane potentials, leading to widespread neuromuscular and cardiac hyper-excitability.