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Can I take Magnesium and Oestrogel pump-pack together?

Drug interaction guide

There is no known direct interaction between magnesium supplements and Oestrogel (estradiol). Taking these two together is generally considered safe and may even be beneficial for some women during menopause.

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You can take magnesium and Oestrogel together as they use different pathways and do not interfere with each other's metabolism in the liver or action at hormone receptors

Magnesium is a mineral absorbed through the digestive system, while Oestrogel is a hormone absorbed through the skin (transdermally).

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How to take magnesium and Oestrogel safely

It is often recommended to take magnesium in the evening as it can help with relaxation and sleep. Apply Oestrogel to clean, dry skin as directed by your doctor, and wait for it to dry completely before applying any other creams or lotions to that area. If you have any concerns about your hormone replacement therapy (HRT), discuss them with your GP or pharmacist.

History of blood clots or breast cancer

You must not use Oestrogel if you have ever had a blood clot (thrombosis), a stroke, or breast cancer, as it can increase the risk of these conditions returning. Seek immediate medical help if you experience painful leg swelling, sudden chest pain, or difficulty breathing. Regularly check your breasts for any changes or lumps.

Unexplained vaginal bleeding

Do not start using Oestrogel if you have any vaginal bleeding that has not been checked by a doctor, as this can be a sign of changes to the womb lining.

Kidney disease

If you have severe kidney problems, your body may not be able to remove excess magnesium, leading to dangerously high levels in the blood. Check with your doctor before use.

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Alcohol

It is best to avoid or strictly limit alcohol while using Oestrogel. Alcohol can increase the levels of oestrogen in your blood, which may increase the risk of side effects. Additionally, long-term alcohol use combined with hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can further increase the risk of breast cancer.

It is best to avoid or strictly limit alcohol when taking magnesium. Alcohol acts as a diuretic, which can increase the amount of magnesium your body loses through urine, potentially making the supplement less effective. Additionally, chronic alcohol use can lead to magnesium deficiency.

Grapefruit juice

Grapefruit juice can interfere with the enzymes that break down oestrogen in your body. This may lead to higher levels of the hormone in your blood, potentially increasing the risk of side effects such as breast tenderness or nausea.

Dairy products (Milk, Cheese, Yoghurt)

Avoid taking magnesium supplements at the same time as large amounts of dairy products. Dairy is high in calcium, and high doses of calcium can compete with magnesium for absorption in the gut, meaning you may not get the full benefit of your supplement. It is best to space them at least 2 hours apart.

Caffeine (Coffee, Tea, Energy drinks)

It is best to limit caffeine intake around the time you take magnesium. Like alcohol, caffeine has a mild diuretic effect and can increase the excretion of magnesium through the kidneys.

Taking multiple medicines? Our Medicines Interaction Checker helps you check whether your prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements are safe to take together. Simply search for your medicines to see potential interactions and what to do about them.

Disclaimer

This information is for general educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your GP, pharmacist, or another qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your medications. Individual circumstances may vary, and only a healthcare professional who knows your medical history can provide personalised guidance.

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Article history

The information on this page is written and peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 25 Jan 2026 | Originally published
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