Several studies suggest a possible connection between magnesium deficiency and migraine headaches. Magnesium plays a key role in nerve transmission and vascular tone, both of which influence migraine activity.
Lower Magnesium Levels in Migraine Patients
A study published in Cephalalgia (1992;12:21–27) compared 90 headache patients with 40 age-matched controls who did not experience headaches. Individuals with both migraine and tension headaches had significantly lower salivary and serum magnesium levels than the control group. Magnesium levels tended to drop even further during migraine attacks, suggesting an association between magnesium status and symptom severity.
IV Magnesium for Acute Migraine Relief
A double-blind study published in Headache (2001;41:171–177) evaluated 30 adults with migraines (24 women and 6 men, ages 20–57). Participants were given either:
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1 gram of IV magnesium, or
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10 ml of saline as a placebo
In the magnesium group:
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Nearly 87% experienced complete relief
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Over 13% experienced partial relief
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Associated symptoms—nausea and photophobia—resolved in all patients
In the placebo group:
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Some patients had reduced pain, but
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Nausea and photophobia resolved in only 20%
Additional Evidence
Earlier research reported in the Medical Tribune (May 18, 1995;7) found that about half of patients with frequent migraines had low ionized magnesium, and that IV magnesium therapy often provided relief.
These findings suggest that magnesium status may play a meaningful role in migraine frequency and severity, and that magnesium therapy may offer benefits for some individuals.
Educational only — not medical advice.
