Magnesium balance studies in chronic alcoholism

Magnesium balance studies were undertaken in 11 patients with chronic alcoholism during 6 to 10 day periods. In comparison with control patients, all alcoholic subjects studied showed markedly positive magnesium balances during the repletion period. The data clearly demonstrate total body magnesium deficiency and underline the need for magnesium repletion, either by diet, parenteral injection, or both, in patients with chronic alcoholism with tremor and hyperkinesis. The more severely ill patients, especially those who cannot eat normally, need parenteral magnesium injections.