A Practical Narrative Review on the Role of Magnesium in Cancer Therapy.

Magnesium (Mg) has gained oncologists' attention due to its wide range of biological functions and frequent use as a complementary or integrative agent. This review outlines Mg's actions, its complex role in carcinogenesis and tumor risk, and clinical issues. Mg is essential in numerous biochemical processes, including adenosine triphosphate production, cellular signal transduction, DNA, RNA and protein synthesis, and bone formation. Pertinent full-text articles were thoroughly examined, and the most relevant ones were selected for inclusion in this review. There is conflicting scientific evidence about the relationship between Mg changes and cancer risk, apart from colorectal cancer. Chronic Mg deficiency leads to immune dysfunctions and enhanced baseline inflammation associated with oxidative stress related to various age-associated morbidities and cancer. On the other hand, Mg deficiency is associated with drug or chemotherapy-related hypomagnesemia, postoperative pain, cachexia, opioid-induced constipation, normal tissue protection from radiation damage, and prevention of nephrotoxicity. A balanced diet usually provides sufficient Mg, but supplementation may be necessary in some clinical settings.