Which of the following may cause hypermagnesemia in enterally fed patients?

Hypermagnesemia is a condition characterized by elevated levels of magnesium in the blood. In enterally fed patients, this condition can arise due to various contributing factors.

Magnesium-containing antacids are known to be a potential cause of hypermagnesemia. These antacids are often used to alleviate symptoms of indigestion or acid reflux and can lead to excessive magnesium intake, especially in individuals with impaired renal function who are unable to excrete the excess magnesium effectively.

While diuretics and laxatives generally promote the elimination of excess magnesium through urine or stool, they do not commonly lead to hypermagnesemia. In fact, certain diuretics may actually help prevent hypermagnesemia by facilitating magnesium excretion. Similarly, penicillin G sodium does not typically contribute to increased magnesium levels; rather, it can lead to other electrolyte imbalances.

In this context, focusing on magnesium-containing antacids as the primary cause highlights the importance of monitoring magnesium intake in patients receiving enteral nutrition, especially if these patients are also using antacids for gastric discomfort. Given the information, the emphasis on magnesium-containing antacids as a risk for hypermagnesemia is particularly relevant for healthcare providers managing enterally fed patients.