magnesium

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magnesium (mag-nee-ziŭm) n. a metallic element essential to life. Magnesium is necessary for the proper functioning of muscle and nervous tissue. Symbol: Mg. m. carbonate a weak antacid used (usually in combination with other compounds) to relieve indigestion. m. hydroxide a magnesium salt used as an osmotic laxative and also as an ingredient in antacid preparations. m. sulphate a magnesium salt used in the form of mixtures or powders for rapid evacuation of the bowel (see laxative). It is also administered intravenously to treat magnesium deficiency and serious arrhythmias and to prevent recurrent convulsions in eclampsia. m. trisilicate a compound of magnesium with antacid and absorbent properties, used in the treatment of indigestion.

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