Magnesium L‑Threonate
MIT-developed Mg chelate (Magtein®), synaptic Mg²⁺ booster.
Pharmacology
Contents
WHAT IS MAGNESIUM L-THREONATE?
Detailed overview
Magnesium L-Threonate (Magtein®) is a proprietary magnesium chelate developed at MIT by Liu Guosong and Susumu Tonegawa, in which the threonic-acid conjugation lets magnesium ions penetrate the CNS more efficiently than other forms (oxide, citrate, glycinate). Slutsky 2010 (Neuron, PMC) – rat study showed elevated brain Mg²⁺ + synaptic density and LTP increases in prefrontal cortex + hippocampus. Liu 2016 human RCT (Magtein) – ~9-year reduction in cognitive age vs placebo in older adults on a small sample (n=44, 12 weeks). Typical dose: 2 g / day (~144 mg elemental magnesium). Adjuvant to stimulants and racetams: NMDA-tone stabilization reduces overstimulation-anxiety and insomnia – frequently included in Alpha-GPC + Phenylpiracetam stacks. Magtein®: FDA GRAS. Generic Mg-L-threonate may not match the patented bioavailability.
Mechanism
CNS-elevated Mg²⁺ + NMDA modulation
Onset
4-12 weeks chronic use
Legal status
OTC dietary supplement
Receptor profile
- Brain magnesium levelsStrong
- NMDA receptor / synaptic densityStrong
- Sleep qualityModerate
Safety
Side effects, stop signs, contraindications
Side effects · 6
- GI complaints, loose stools or mild diarrhea at higher doses
- Headache, especially in the first days of use
- Drowsiness, sedation or grogginess when taken during the day
- Dizziness or mild drop in blood pressure
- Vivid dreams or sleep disturbance with too high an evening dose
- Nausea or stomach cramps when taken on an empty stomach
Contraindications · 5
- Renal insufficiency or impaired kidney function, due to risk of hypermagnesemia
- Severe arrhythmia, bradycardia or AV block, due to cardiac conduction effects
- Concurrent antibiotics (tetracyclines, fluoroquinolones): magnesium reduces their absorption, separate dosing by 2-3 hours
- Caution in pregnancy and breastfeeding, insufficient human data for this specific form
- Combination with muscle relaxants or sedatives may increase sedation and muscle weakness
Related Nootropics
Same therapeutic category
FAQ
FAQ
Magnesium L-Threonate is a special, MIT-developed form of magnesium designed to reach the brain more efficiently than common forms like magnesium oxide or citrate. Its purpose is to raise magnesium levels at the connection points between nerve cells (synapses), where magnesium plays an important role in brain function. It's aimed mainly at people who specifically want a brain-targeted magnesium, rather than general magnesium supplementation.
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Structure & chemistry
The information here is strictly for educational and scientific purposes. It does not replace medical advice or clinical consultation, and it does not encourage illegal substance or pharmaceutical use. Data is sourced. When in doubt, consult your doctor.