Category
Elements, Metallic
Description
Silvery solid; [CHRIS]
Sources/Uses
Magnesium is important an essential mineral in the body for enzymatic reactions and neuromuscular function. Magnesium is used in antacids and cathartics. It is used to treat toxemia of pregnancy, some cardiac dysrrhymias, and severe bronchospasm. [Olson, p. 300]
Comments
Elemental magnesium can cause serious skin burns and magnesium fume may cause metal fume fever; [CHEMINFO MSDS] The normal range of serum magnesium is 1.7-2.4 mg/dL. The therapeutic level for toxemia is 5-7.4 mg/dL Sedation and hypotension occur at levels exceeding 8-12 mg/dL. Arrhythmias and muscular paralysis with respiratory arrest occur at levels exceeding 12 mg/dL. Patients with renal insufficiency taking magnesium-containing antacids or cathartics are at risk. [Olson, p. 301]
Explanatory Notes
Melting Point = 649C (1200F); Boiling Point = 1100C (2012F); [CHEMINFO MSDS] Magnesium powder is spontaneously combustible. [CAMEO]
Diseases
Occupational diseases associated with exposure to this agent:
Processes
Industrial Processes with risk of exposure: