Magnesium Threonate
Also known as: Magtein®, Magnesium L-Threonate
The only form of magnesium shown to effectively cross the blood-brain barrier — designed for cognitive support.
What it is
Magnesium L-threonate is a patented form of magnesium developed by researchers at MIT and marketed as Magtein®. It is the only form demonstrated in research to significantly raise cerebrospinal fluid magnesium levels and increase synaptic density in animal models. It is specifically designed for cognitive and neurological applications rather than general mineral repletion.
How it works
The threonate molecule acts as a carrier that facilitates magnesium transport across the blood-brain barrier — a crossing that other magnesium forms achieve only minimally. Once in the brain, magnesium supports synaptic plasticity, NMDA receptor function, and neuroprotection. Research in aging populations shows improvements in short-term memory and executive function.
Clinical dose range
1,000–2,000 mg Magtein® compound/day (providing ~144–288 mg elemental magnesium)
This form is dosed by total compound weight rather than elemental magnesium. Most clinical research uses 1,500–2,000 mg/day of the Magtein® compound. It is not the most efficient for pure mineral repletion compared to glycinate.
Forms comparison
What to look for on the label
- Uses verified Magtein® branded ingredient (patent-protected, ensures research-grade material)
- Dose stated in mg of Magtein® compound with elemental magnesium disclosed
- Third-party tested
- Combined with glycinate or malate in some formulas for complete magnesium coverage
Health goals supported
Safety & dosing notes
Well-tolerated in clinical studies. Same general magnesium safety profile applies. The lower elemental magnesium per serving means it is less likely to cause GI side effects but also provides less systemic mineral repletion.
SuppsBuddy identifies Magtein® as a premium branded ingredient and scores it highly for cognitive goal alignment. Products claiming brain benefits from generic magnesium forms without threonate receive lower Fit Scores for that goal.
Frequently asked questions
What is Magnesium Threonate?
Magnesium L-threonate is a patented form of magnesium developed by researchers at MIT and marketed as Magtein®. It is the only form demonstrated in research to significantly raise cerebrospinal fluid magnesium levels and increase synaptic density in animal models. It is specifically designed for cognitive and neurological applications rather than general mineral repletion.
How does Magnesium Threonate work?
The threonate molecule acts as a carrier that facilitates magnesium transport across the blood-brain barrier — a crossing that other magnesium forms achieve only minimally. Once in the brain, magnesium supports synaptic plasticity, NMDA receptor function, and neuroprotection. Research in aging populations shows improvements in short-term memory and executive function.
What is the typical clinical dose range for Magnesium Threonate?
1,000–2,000 mg Magtein® compound/day (providing ~144–288 mg elemental magnesium). This form is dosed by total compound weight rather than elemental magnesium. Most clinical research uses 1,500–2,000 mg/day of the Magtein® compound. It is not the most efficient for pure mineral repletion compared to glycinate.
What forms of Magnesium Threonate should I look for?
Magnesium L-Threonate (Magtein®): The only clinically validated brain-targeted magnesium form | Magnesium Glycinate: Superior for general mineral repletion; does not target brain tissue specifically
Is Magnesium Threonate safe?
Well-tolerated in clinical studies. Same general magnesium safety profile applies. The lower elemental magnesium per serving means it is less likely to cause GI side effects but also provides less systemic mineral repletion. This information is educational and is not medical advice.
How does SuppsBuddy evaluate Magnesium Threonate?
SuppsBuddy identifies Magtein® as a premium branded ingredient and scores it highly for cognitive goal alignment. Products claiming brain benefits from generic magnesium forms without threonate receive lower Fit Scores for that goal.
Related ingredients
This page is for educational purposes only. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any supplement.