Can Magnesium Help With Neuralgia? A Deep Dive into Nutrition and Nerve Pain

October 22, 2025 •

5 min read

An estimated half of the U.S. population consumes inadequate amounts of magnesium, a mineral vital for over 300 enzymatic reactions in the body, including nerve function. This growing deficit has led to increased interest in the question: Can magnesium help with neuralgia? Research indicates magnesium plays a protective role in the nervous system, with various studies exploring its potential to modulate nerve pain transmission.

Quick Summary

Magnesium shows promise as an adjunctive therapy for nerve pain, potentially by blocking pain-transmitting receptors and calming nerve signals. Evidence, though mixed for oral supplements, supports its use for specific neuralgia types, but efficacy depends on the form and delivery method.

Key Points

NMDA Receptor Blocker: Magnesium can help block the NMDA receptor, which is critical in pain transmission and central sensitization associated with chronic neuralgia.
Variable Effectiveness: The efficacy of magnesium varies significantly depending on the delivery method; intravenous administration has shown more consistent results for acute pain relief compared to oral supplements.
Targeted Topical Relief: Topical magnesium applications, such as oils or creams, can provide localized relief by targeting inflammation and muscle tension in affected areas, though evidence is less extensive.
Consider Supplement Form: For oral supplementation, magnesium glycinate and citrate are often preferred for nerve pain due to their higher bioavailability and better absorption compared to forms like magnesium oxide.
Potential for Deficiency: Low magnesium levels have been linked to nerve damage and related symptoms, making deficiency correction a potential part of a treatment plan for neuralgia.
Adjunctive Therapy: Magnesium is best considered an adjunctive therapy, used in combination with other treatments under medical guidance, rather than a standalone cure for neuralgia.

Neuralgia, a form of neuropathic pain, is characterized by persistent, chronic pain resulting from damage or dysfunction of the nervous system. The pain can be debilitating and often responds poorly to traditional pain medications. This has led many to explore alternative and complementary therapies, including nutritional interventions like magnesium supplementation. Magnesium's potential in this area is rooted in its fundamental role in nerve health and function.

The Underlying Mechanism: How Magnesium Affects Nerve Pain

The therapeutic action of magnesium against nerve pain is primarily linked to its effect on N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors.

NMDA Receptor Blockade: NMDA receptors are protein channels in nerve cells that play a critical role in pain transmission and a phenomenon known as central sensitization. Central sensitization is the increased sensitivity of the central nervous system to painful stimuli, which often characterizes chronic pain conditions like neuralgia. Magnesium acts as a voltage-gated antagonist at the NMDA receptor, meaning it physically blocks the channel at normal resting membrane potential. This prevents an excessive influx of calcium into the nerve cells, which would otherwise amplify pain signals and contribute to nerve hyperexcitability.
Reduction of Hyperexcitability: By blocking the NMDA receptor, magnesium helps prevent the establishment of central sensitization and may reverse existing hypersensitivity. This inhibitory action can help calm overactive nerve signals, reducing the intensity and frequency of neuropathic pain flares.
Anti-inflammatory Effects: Magnesium also possesses anti-inflammatory properties. It can reduce inflammation in the nervous system, which is a major contributing factor to nerve damage and chronic pain. By mitigating inflammation, magnesium may protect nerves and further alleviate neuralgia symptoms.

Research and Clinical Evidence for Magnesium in Neuralgia

The use of magnesium has been investigated across various types of neuropathic pain, with the most robust evidence supporting intravenous (IV) administration for acute pain control.

Postherpetic Neuralgia (PHN)

PHN is a common complication of shingles, causing chronic pain in the area affected by the initial rash. Clinical studies involving intravenous magnesium sulfate have shown significant, albeit short-term, pain relief in patients with intractable PHN, supporting the theory that NMDA receptors are involved in this condition. While the pain-relieving effect of IV magnesium was temporary, it demonstrates the mineral's capacity to modulate nerve pain.

Diabetic Neuropathy

Diabetic peripheral neuropathy is a common complication of diabetes that causes numbness, tingling, and pain, typically starting in the extremities. A link exists between low serum magnesium levels and the development or worsening of diabetic neuropathy. Several preclinical and some clinical studies suggest that magnesium supplementation, particularly oral forms, may have neuroprotective effects, reduce hyperalgesia, and improve nerve function in diabetic neuropathy.

Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy (CIPN)

CIPN is a side effect of certain chemotherapy drugs, causing tingling, numbness, and pain. Some studies have explored high-dose intravenous calcium-magnesium infusions as a preventive measure against oxaliplatin-induced neuropathy, with mixed results. While some early trials showed a protective effect, subsequent studies have been inconsistent, indicating the need for further research.

Chronic Lower Back Pain

In one randomized controlled trial of patients with chronic lower back pain that included a neuropathic component, a regimen of sequential intravenous and oral magnesium improved pain intensity compared to a placebo group. This suggests a potential role for magnesium in certain cases of chronic pain with neuropathic features.

Comparing Different Forms of Magnesium for Neuralgia

Not all magnesium supplements are created equal, and their effectiveness can depend on bioavailability—the rate and extent to which the body absorbs them. Here is a comparison of common magnesium forms discussed for nerve-related issues:


Magnesium Form	Key Features	Bioavailability	Potential for Neuralgia
Magnesium Glycinate	Highly absorbable; gentler on the stomach. Often recommended for its calming effects, which can aid with sleep and stress.	High	Good. Calming properties may help with nerve-related discomfort and sleep issues.
Magnesium Citrate	Highly absorbable; known for its potential laxative effect in higher doses. Good for general magnesium supplementation.	High	Moderate-Good. Can be effective, but higher amounts may cause digestive side effects.
Magnesium Oxide	Lower absorption rate compared to other forms; primarily used as a laxative due to its bowel-stimulating effect.	Low	Poor. Not ideal for targeted nerve pain relief due to low absorption.
Magnesium L-Threonate	Can cross the blood-brain barrier, making it effective for cognitive function. Some studies suggest benefits for nerve pain.	Variable; crosses BBB	High potential. Its ability to reach the brain could be beneficial for centrally-driven pain pathways.
Magnesium Chloride (Topical)	Used in topical sprays and lotions. Absorbed directly through the skin, bypassing the digestive system for targeted relief.	Variable; depends on skin absorption	Good for localized, targeted relief. Useful for addressing sore muscles and inflammation that can contribute to neuralgia.

Practical Application: Supplementation, Safety, and Food Sources

If you and your healthcare provider decide that magnesium supplementation is appropriate for your neuralgia, several factors should be considered.

Supplementation Considerations

Oral Supplements: The appropriate amount of elemental magnesium can vary. It is important to follow the guidance of a healthcare provider and consider starting with a lower amount and increasing gradually to minimize the risk of digestive side effects.
Intravenous (IV): This is typically administered in a hospital setting under medical supervision for severe or acute pain.

Potential Side Effects and Precautions

Gastrointestinal Distress: The most common side effects of oral magnesium supplements are nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, especially when taken in higher amounts. Choosing a better-absorbed form like magnesium glycinate can help mitigate this.
Drug Interactions: Magnesium can interact with certain medications, including antibiotics, diuretics, and heart medications. Always consult a doctor before starting a new supplement, particularly if you are on prescription medication.
Kidney Function: Individuals with impaired kidney function should exercise caution with magnesium supplements, as the body may struggle to excrete excess magnesium, leading to toxicity.

Dietary Sources of Magnesium

Incorporating magnesium-rich foods into your diet is a safe and effective way to increase your intake naturally. Excellent sources include:

Dark leafy greens (e.g., spinach, Swiss chard)
Legumes (e.g., black beans, lentils)
Nuts and seeds (e.g., almonds, pumpkin seeds)
Avocado
Bananas
Dark chocolate
Whole grains

Conclusion: A Promising Adjunctive Therapy

In conclusion, the question of whether can magnesium help with neuralgia has a complex but promising answer. Magnesium's ability to block NMDA receptors and reduce central sensitization offers a compelling mechanism for relieving nerve pain. Clinical evidence, while mixed, particularly for oral forms, suggests it can be a valuable adjunctive therapy, especially when correcting a diagnosed magnesium deficiency. Intravenous magnesium has shown more significant, albeit temporary, results in acute settings, and topical applications provide targeted relief. Due to the varying bioavailability of different magnesium forms and potential drug interactions, it is essential to consult a healthcare provider to determine the best approach for your specific condition.

Note: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen. Link to NIH resource on magnesium

Frequently Asked Questions

Magnesium plays a crucial role in nerve function and can influence nerve pain by acting as a natural antagonist to the NMDA receptor, which is involved in transmitting pain signals and developing central sensitization.

Magnesium glycinate is often recommended for its high bioavailability and calming effects, while magnesium L-threonate can cross the blood-brain barrier. Topical magnesium chloride may also offer targeted relief for localized pain. The best form depends on individual needs and requires consultation with a healthcare provider.

Magnesium blocks the NMDA receptor, a channel in nerve cells that, when overactive, amplifies pain signals and contributes to chronic pain. By blocking this receptor, magnesium helps regulate nerve excitability and reduce pain transmission.

While a diet rich in magnesium is beneficial for overall nerve health, many people do not consume enough from food alone. For those with a deficiency contributing to neuralgia, supplementation may be necessary to achieve therapeutic levels.

Magnesium supplements are generally safe for most healthy adults. However, consuming large amounts can cause gastrointestinal side effects, and individuals with kidney problems should be cautious due to the risk of toxicity. Long-term use should be discussed with a doctor, especially if other medications are being taken.

Excellent food sources of magnesium include dark leafy greens like spinach, nuts, seeds, legumes, avocados, and dark chocolate. Incorporating these foods into your diet is a safe way to boost your magnesium intake.

Topical magnesium, such as magnesium oil or lotions, may provide targeted relief for localized nerve pain and associated muscle tension by being absorbed directly through the skin. Its effectiveness and absorption rate, however, can vary.