SarcopeniaSARCOMAGNCT07567963
Magnesium Supplementation as a Nutritional Intervention in Sarcopenia
A study testing Citrate Magnesium Supplementation in people with Sarcopenia, run by Escola Superior de Saúde - Universidade do Algarve at 1 site in Portugal.
Trial summary
Sarcopenia is a progressive condition common in older adults and is characterized by loss of muscle strength, muscle mass, and physical performance. It is associated with an increased risk of falls, disability, reduced independence, and poorer quality of life. Read more about this study
- Who is it for?
- Ages 70 years and olderHealthy volunteers can take part
- Conditions the study is for
- Sarcopenia
- What is being tested?
- Citrate Magnesium Supplementation
- Type of treatment
- Pill or oral medicine
- Could I receive a placebo?
- Yes, some participants may receive a placebo
- How many people
- 352 participants
- Where
- 1 sitePortugal
- Study dates
- 1 Jun 2026to 30 Jun 2027
- Phase
- Interventional
- Are there results?
- Not yet: the study is under way
Key requirements
Who can take part, as listed by the sponsor. Only the study team can confirm whether you are eligible, so take this list to your doctor.
- Ages 70 years and older
- All sexes
- Healthy volunteers accepted
- Older adult
Who may be able to join
- Adults aged 70 years or older
- Community-dwelling individuals residing in the eastern Algarve region of Portugal
- Not hospitalized at the time of recruitment
- Ability to participate in study assessments, regardless of mobility status
- Ability to provide written informed consent, either personally or via a legally authorized representative when applicable
- Adequate cognitive ability to collaborate with study procedures, as determined by screening assessment
Who cannot join
- Alcoholism
- Acute gastrointestinal conditions with symptoms of diarrhea and/or vomiting
- Presence of conditions associated with magnesium imbalance, including: Electrolyte disorders, Hyperthyroidism, Type 1 diabetes mellitus, Renal disease, Hyperaldosteronism, Short bowel syndrome or history of intestinal resection, Gastric bypass surgery
- Use of medications known to affect magnesium metabolism, including: Loop or thiazide diuretics (e.g., furosemide, thiazides), Proton pump inhibitors (e.g., omeprazole, pantoprazole, esomeprazole), Cytotoxic agents (e.g., cisplatin, carboplatin, gallium nitrate), Antimicrobial agents such as aminoglycosides, Immunosuppressive agents, Beta-adrenergic agonists (e.g., theophylline, salbutamol, rimiterol), Cetuximab, Cyclosporine A, Pamidronate.
Trial locations and contacts
1 site in 1 country. Contact the study team or a site near you to ask about taking part.
Portugal1 site
Escola Superior de Saúde - Universidade do Algarve
Faro, Faro District, 8005-139
Dina F João, +351961647475, drjoao@ualg.pt
Dina F João
About this study
Official title: Effects of Magnesium Supplementation on Muscle Strength, Muscle Mass, and Physical Performance in Sarcopenic Individuals
Sarcopenia is a progressive condition common in older adults and is characterized by loss of muscle strength, muscle mass, and physical performance. It is associated with an increased risk of falls, disability, reduced independence, and poorer quality of life. Nutritional interventions are recommended as part of sarcopenia management; however, evidence regarding the role of specific micronutrients remains limited. Magnesium is an essential mineral involved in muscle contraction, neuromuscular function, energy production, and inflammation regulation. Low magnesium status is frequent in older adults and may contribute to muscle impairment and physical decline.
This study aims to evaluate the effects of magnesium supplementation on muscle strength, muscle mass, and physical performance in older adults with sarcopenia living in the eastern Algarve region of Portugal. In addition, the study will assess the prevalence of low magnesium status and sarcopenia in this population.
Read more
The study will be conducted in two phases. In the first, observational phase, community-dwelling adults aged 70 years or older will be assessed for sarcopenia according to established diagnostic criteria. Blood samples will be collected to measure serum and erythrocyte magnesium levels and C-reactive protein as an inflammatory marker. Participants diagnosed with sarcopenia and presenting low magnesium levels will be eligible for the second phase.
In the second phase, eligible participants will be randomly assigned to receive either oral magnesium supplementation (400 mg/day of magnesium citrate) or a placebo for 12 weeks, in a double-blind and controlled design. After the intervention period, participants will be reassessed for muscle strength, muscle mass, physical performance, magnesium status, and inflammation.
The results of this study are expected to clarify the role of magnesium supplementation as a nutritional strategy in sarcopenia. Findings may contribute to improving nutritional recommendations and supporting interventions aimed at preserving muscle health, physical function, and quality of life in older adults.
- Conditions
- Sarcopenia
- Being tested
- Citrate Magnesium Supplementation, Placebo
- Keywords
- Sarcopenia, Muscle Strength, Muscle Mass, Physical Performance, Aging, Older Adults, Magnesium, Hypomagnesemia, Nutritional Intervention, Supplementation
- Medical subject headings
- Sarcopenia
What participants receive
What participants receive. In a randomised study each person is assigned to one group by chance.
Citrate Magnesium SupplementationDietary supplement
Participants assigned to the experimental arm will receive oral magnesium supplementation administered daily for 12 weeks. The intervention consists of magnesium citrate capsules providing a total daily dose of 400 mg of elemental magnesium. The supplement will be taken according to a standardized dosing schedule identical to that of the placebo group. Magnesium citrate was selected due to its favorable bioavailability. Participants, investigators, and outcome assessors will remain blinded to group assignment throughout the study. Adherence to the intervention will be assessed by capsule count at follow-up visits, and participants will be monitored regularly for tolerability and potential adverse events.
PlaceboOther
Participants assigned to the placebo comparator arm will receive an oral placebo administered daily for 12 weeks. The placebo consists of capsules containing microcrystalline cellulose, an inert substance with no known physiological or therapeutic effects. The placebo capsules are identical in appearance, taste, and packaging to the magnesium supplement to ensure blinding of participants and investigators. The dosing schedule will be the same as that used in the experimental group. Adherence to the intervention will be monitored by capsule count at follow-up visits, and participants will be observed regularly for tolerability and safety.
| Study group | Role | What they receive |
|---|---|---|
| Placebo | Placebo comparator | Participants assigned to the placebo comparator group will receive an oral placebo administered daily for 12 weeks. The placebo consists of capsules containing microcrystalline cellulose, an inert substance with no known biological effects. The placebo capsules are identical in appearance, taste, and packaging to the magnesium supplement, ensuring blinding of participants and investigators. Participants will be instructed to take the capsules according to the same schedule as the intervention group. Adherence will be monitored through capsule count at follow-up visits. Receives: Other: Placebo |
| Magnesium Supplementation | Experimental | Participants assigned to the experimental arm will receive oral magnesium supplementation administered daily for a period of 12 weeks. The intervention consists of magnesium citrate capsules providing a total daily dose of 400 mg of elemental magnesium. The supplement will be taken according to a standardized dosing schedule identical to that of the placebo group. Magnesium citrate was selected due to its favorable bioavailability. Participants and investigators will remain blinded to treatment allocation throughout the study. Adherence to the intervention will be assessed by capsule count at follow-up visits, and participants will be monitored regularly for tolerability and potential adverse events. Receives: Dietary Supplement: Citrate Magnesium Supplementation |
What is being measured
The primary outcome is the main question the study is designed to answer.
Muscle Strength
Change in muscle strength assessed by handgrip strength using a calibrated handgrip dynamometer. Handgrip strength will be measured in a seated position, with the elbow flexed at 90 degrees, following standardized procedures. Three measurements will be performed on the non-dominant hand (or dominant hand if necessary), with the highest value recorded. Muscle strength will be evaluated at baseline and after 12 weeks of intervention.
Measured: Baseline and 12 weeks
Muscle Mass
Change in muscle mass assessed by bioelectrical impedance analysis, including appendicular muscle mass and muscle mass adjusted for height. Measurements will be performed at baseline and after 12 weeks of intervention.
Measured: Baseline and 12 weeks
Physical Performance
Change in physical performance assessed by the 4-meter gait speed test, conducted according to standardized procedures. Performance will be assessed at baseline and after 12 weeks of intervention.
Measured: Baseline and 12 weeks
Secondary outcomes (5)
Serum Magnesium Levels
Change in serum magnesium concentration measured from blood samples using standard laboratory procedures. Serum magnesium levels will be assessed at baseline and after 12 weeks of intervention.
Measured: Baseline and 12 weeks
Erythrocyte Magnesium Levels
Change in intracellular magnesium status assessed by erythrocyte magnesium concentration measured from blood samples using validated laboratory methods. Measurements will be performed at baseline and after 12 weeks of intervention.
Measured: Baseline and 12 weeks
Inflammation
Change in systemic inflammation assessed by serum C-reactive protein (CRP) concentration measured using standard laboratory methods. CRP levels will be evaluated at baseline and after 12 weeks of intervention.
Measured: Baseline and 12 weeks
Adherence to Supplementation
Adherence to the prescribed intervention assessed by capsule count, calculated as the proportion of capsules consumed during the 12-week intervention period.
Measured: Up to 12 weeks
Safety and Tolerability
Occurrence of adverse events and tolerability of magnesium supplementation or placebo assessed through participant reporting and regular monitoring during the intervention period.
Measured: Up to 12 weeks
Timeline
From the start of the study to its completion; the mark is today. Estimated dates are the sponsor’s plan.
- First posted5 May 2026
- Study start1 Jun 2026 (estimated)
- Primary completion31 Jan 2027 (estimated)
- Study completion30 Jun 2027 (estimated)
Resources
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govThe registry entry this page is built from, with its full change history.
- Other trials for SarcopeniaStudies of the same condition, open and under way.
- What the trial phases meanHow a treatment moves from first tests in people to approval.
More details
For doctors and researchers: how the study is designed, who runs it, and its registry IDs.
Study design
- Study type
- Interventional
- Phase
- Phase N/A
- Primary purpose
- Treatment
- Allocation
- Randomised
- Intervention model
- Parallel groups
- Masking
- Double blind
- Who is masked
- Participant, Investigator
- Enrolment
- 352 participants (estimated)
Sponsor and investigators
- Lead sponsor
- Escola Superior de Saúde - Universidade do Algarve
- Sponsor type
- University, hospital or other
- Responsible party
- Principal investigator, Dina Raquel Fernandes João, Escola Superior de Saúde - Universidade do Algarve
IDs, dates and publications
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07567963
- Sponsor's protocol ID
- UAIF201/2025FARO
- Acronym
- SARCOMAG
- Status last verified
- May 2026
- First submitted
- 29 Apr 2026
- Last updated
- 8 May 2026
- Results posted
- No
- Data monitoring committee
- No
- FDA-regulated drug
- No
- FDA-regulated device
- No
- Individual data sharing
- Undecided: Individual participant data will not be shared due to ethical and data protection constraints. The study involves an older population considered potentially vulnerable, and informed consent for participation did not include consent for data sharing beyond the research team. In addition, the risk of re-identification cannot be fully excluded given the detailed clinical and contextual data collected. Data will be used exclusively for the purposes defined in the approved protocol and in accordance with applicable data protection regulations.
Study at a glance
From the registry record, last updated by the sponsor on 8 May 2026. Recruitment status is as the sponsor reported it: confirm with the study team.
- Official title
- Effects of Magnesium Supplementation on Muscle Strength, Muscle Mass, and Physical Performance in Sarcopenic Individuals
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07567963
- Acronym / sponsor ID
- SARCOMAG / UAIF201/2025FARO
- Conditions
- Sarcopenia
- Keywords
- Sarcopenia, Muscle Strength, Muscle Mass, Physical Performance, Aging, Older Adults, Magnesium, Hypomagnesemia
- Study type
- Interventional
- Recruitment status
- Not yet recruiting
- Enrolment
- 352 participants (estimated)
- Lead sponsor
- Escola Superior de Saúde - Universidade do AlgarveUniversity, hospital or other
- Study start
- 1 Jun 2026 (estimated)
- Primary completion
- 31 Jan 2027 (estimated)
- Study completion
- 30 Jun 2027 (estimated)
- First posted
- 5 May 2026 (actual)
- Results
- Not posted in the source record
Clinical summary
The research question as the sponsor registered it. This describes what the study plans to test, not what it found.
Sarcopenia is a progressive condition common in older adults and is characterized by loss of muscle strength, muscle mass, and physical performance. It is associated with an increased risk of falls, disability, reduced independence, and poorer quality of life. Nutritional interventions are recommended as part of sarcopenia management; however, evidence regarding the role of specific micronutrients remains limited. Magnesium is an essential mineral involved in muscle contraction, neuromuscular function, energy production, and inflammation regulation. Low magnesium status is frequent in older adults and may contribute to muscle impairment and physical decline.
This study aims to evaluate the effects of magnesium supplementation on muscle strength, muscle mass, and physical performance in older adults with sarcopenia living in the eastern Algarve region of Portugal. In addition, the study will assess the prevalence of low magnesium status and sarcopenia in this population.
The study will be conducted in two phases. In the first, observational phase, community-dwelling adults aged 70 years or older will be assessed for sarcopenia according to established diagnostic criteria. Blood samples will be collected to measure serum and erythrocyte magnesium levels and C-reactive protein as an inflammatory marker. Participants diagnosed with sarcopenia and presenting low magnesium levels will be eligible for the second phase.
In the second phase, eligible participants will be randomly assigned to receive either oral magnesium supplementation (400 mg/day of magnesium citrate) or a placebo for 12 weeks, in a double-blind and controlled design. After the intervention period, participants will be reassessed for muscle strength, muscle mass, physical performance, magnesium status, and inflammation.
The results of this study are expected to clarify the role of magnesium supplementation as a nutritional strategy in sarcopenia. Findings may contribute to improving nutritional recommendations and supporting interventions aimed at preserving muscle health, physical function, and quality of life in older adults.
Study design
- Primary purpose
- Treatment
- Allocation
- Randomised
- Intervention model
- Parallel groups
- Masking
- Double blind (participant, investigator)
- Number of arms
- 2
| Arm | Type | Receives |
|---|---|---|
| Placebo | Placebo comparator | Other: PlaceboParticipants assigned to the placebo comparator group will receive an oral placebo administered daily for 12 weeks. The placebo consists of capsules containing microcrystalline cellulose, an inert substance with no known biological effects. The placebo capsules are identical in appearance, taste, and packaging to the magnesium supplement, ensuring blinding of participants and investigators. Participants will be instructed to take the capsules according to the same schedule as the intervention group. Adherence will be monitored through capsule count at follow-up visits. |
| Magnesium Supplementation | Experimental | Dietary Supplement: Citrate Magnesium SupplementationParticipants assigned to the experimental arm will receive oral magnesium supplementation administered daily for a period of 12 weeks. The intervention consists of magnesium citrate capsules providing a total daily dose of 400 mg of elemental magnesium. The supplement will be taken according to a standardized dosing schedule identical to that of the placebo group. Magnesium citrate was selected due to its favorable bioavailability. Participants and investigators will remain blinded to treatment allocation throughout the study. Adherence to the intervention will be assessed by capsule count at follow-up visits, and participants will be monitored regularly for tolerability and potential adverse events. |
Who may qualify
- Ages
- 70 years and older
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- Accepted
- Age groups
- Older adult
Key inclusion criteria (6 listed)
- Adults aged 70 years or older
- Community-dwelling individuals residing in the eastern Algarve region of Portugal
- Not hospitalized at the time of recruitment
- Ability to participate in study assessments, regardless of mobility status
- Ability to provide written informed consent, either personally or via a legally authorized representative when applicable
Key exclusion criteria (4 listed)
- Alcoholism
- Acute gastrointestinal conditions with symptoms of diarrhea and/or vomiting
- Presence of conditions associated with magnesium imbalance, including: Electrolyte disorders, Hyperthyroidism, Type 1 diabetes mellitus, Renal disease, Hyperaldosteronism, Short bowel syndrome or history of intestinal resection, Gastric bypass surgery
- Use of medications known to affect magnesium metabolism, including: Loop or thiazide diuretics (e.g., furosemide, thiazides), Proton pump inhibitors (e.g., omeprazole, pantoprazole, esomeprazole), Cytotoxic agents (e.g., cisplatin, carboplatin, gallium nitrate), Antimicrobial agents such as aminoglycosides, Immunosuppressive agents, Beta-adrenergic agonists (e.g., theophylline, salbutamol, rimiterol), Cetuximab, Cyclosporine A, Pamidronate.
Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening; this overview does not establish that a patient qualifies. Full inclusion and exclusion criteria.
Interventions
| Intervention | Type | Arms |
|---|---|---|
| Citrate Magnesium SupplementationParticipants assigned to the experimental arm will receive oral magnesium supplementation administered daily for 12 weeks. The intervention consists of magnesium citrate capsules providing a total daily dose of 400 mg of elemental magnesium. The supplement will be taken according to a standardized dosing schedule identical to that of the placebo group. Magnesium citrate was selected due to its favorable bioavailability. Participants, investigators, and outcome assessors will remain blinded to group assignment throughout the study. Adherence to the intervention will be assessed by capsule count at follow-up visits, and participants will be monitored regularly for tolerability and potential adverse events. | Dietary supplement | Magnesium Supplementation |
| PlaceboParticipants assigned to the placebo comparator arm will receive an oral placebo administered daily for 12 weeks. The placebo consists of capsules containing microcrystalline cellulose, an inert substance with no known physiological or therapeutic effects. The placebo capsules are identical in appearance, taste, and packaging to the magnesium supplement to ensure blinding of participants and investigators. The dosing schedule will be the same as that used in the experimental group. Adherence to the intervention will be monitored by capsule count at follow-up visits, and participants will be observed regularly for tolerability and safety. | Other | Placebo |
Primary outcome
Muscle Strength
Time frame: Baseline and 12 weeks
Change in muscle strength assessed by handgrip strength using a calibrated handgrip dynamometer. Handgrip strength will be measured in a seated position, with the elbow flexed at 90 degrees, following standardized procedures. Three measurements will be performed on the non-dominant hand (or dominant hand if necessary), with the highest value recorded. Muscle strength will be evaluated at baseline and after 12 weeks of intervention.
Muscle Mass
Time frame: Baseline and 12 weeks
Change in muscle mass assessed by bioelectrical impedance analysis, including appendicular muscle mass and muscle mass adjusted for height. Measurements will be performed at baseline and after 12 weeks of intervention.
Physical Performance
Time frame: Baseline and 12 weeks
Change in physical performance assessed by the 4-meter gait speed test, conducted according to standardized procedures. Performance will be assessed at baseline and after 12 weeks of intervention.
5 secondary outcomes
Serum Magnesium Levels
Time frame: Baseline and 12 weeks
Erythrocyte Magnesium Levels
Time frame: Baseline and 12 weeks
Inflammation
Time frame: Baseline and 12 weeks
Adherence to Supplementation
Time frame: Up to 12 weeks
Safety and Tolerability
Time frame: Up to 12 weeks
Results and safety
This study is still under way. Results are not available in the source record yet.
Research links
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govLast updated by the sponsor 8 May 2026.
- Individual participant dataSharing planned: Undecided. Individual participant data will not be shared due to ethical and data protection constraints. The study involves an older population considered potentially vulnerable, and informed consent for participation did not include consent for data sharing beyond the research team. In addition, the risk of re-identification cannot be fully excluded given the detailed clinical and contextual data collected. Data will be used exclusively for the purposes defined in the approved protocol and in accordance with applicable data protection regulations.
Related trials for Sarcopenia
Recruiting
Strength and Dual-Task on Sarcopenia in People With Parkinson's Disease
PARKINSON DISEASE (Disorder), Parkinsonism or Parkinson's Disease Nos
Not yet recruitingObservational study
Malnutrition and Sarcopenia in Adults With Chronic Kidney Disease in Tunisia
Malnutrition, Sarcopenia
RecruitingObservational study
Investigating the Link Between Advanced Glycation End Products (AGEs) and Muscle Wasting in Sarcobesity
Sarcopenia, Obesity
Enrolling by invitation
Physical Activity Interventions for Sleep Improvement and Sedative-Hypnotic Reduction in Middle-Aged and Older Adults: Investigating the Role of Sarcopenia
Insomnia Chronic, Hypnotics and Sedatives
Recruiting
Muscle Deterioration in Hospitalized Cancer Patient
Oncologic Diseases
Referral and contact
AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals. Contact the study team or a site listed below; they decide who can take part.
1 site in 1 country: see every site and its status.
Questions about this trial
What is this clinical trial studying?
A study testing Citrate Magnesium Supplementation in people with Sarcopenia, run by Escola Superior de Saúde - Universidade do Algarve at 1 site in Portugal.
The full registered description is in the About this study section and the official record.
Who may be eligible to take part?
The sponsor lists 6 inclusion and 4 exclusion criteria. Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening, so read the full criteria and contact a listed site.
Is this clinical trial currently recruiting?
The record says: opening soon, as of the sponsor's last update on 8 May 2026. Status can change between updates, so confirm with the study contact before making plans.
Where is the study taking place?
The record lists 1 site in Portugal. Whether a site is taking part right now should be confirmed with that site. See every site.
What are the possible benefits and risks?
They depend on the study and the treatment, and no study can promise a benefit. Some participants in this study may receive a placebo. The study team explains the known risks during informed consent, before anyone joins; the record itself does not list them.
Are results available for this study?
This study is still under way. Results are not available in the source record yet.
How can a doctor refer a patient or contact the research team?
Contact Dina F João (+351961647475, drjoao@ualg.pt), or a site near the patient. AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals.
What does the primary outcome measure?
Muscle Strength (time frame: Baseline and 12 weeks). The study lists 3 primary outcomes in all. It is what the study was designed to measure, not a finding.
Where can I read the original study information?
Does a listing mean the treatment is approved or proven to work?
No. A listing means the study is registered. It does not show that the treatment is safe, works, or is approved by a regulator.
How often is this information updated?
AzTrials copies changed records from ClinicalTrials.gov every night and reloads the whole registry every week. The sponsor last updated this record on 8 May 2026.