The aim of a recent study was to investigate the effect of oral magnesium on asthma morbidity for children and adolescents.  It was a randomized, placebo-controlled study that included 37 patients ages 7 to 19 suffering from moderate, persistent asthma.  One group received magnesium 300 mg per day for two months.  The second group received a placebo (fake pill).  All patients received medication prescribed for asthma.  The drugs were taken via inhalation. 

The conclusion of the study was that the number of days with asthma attacks and the need to use inhalers was significantly lower in the group that was also supplemented with magnesium.  The group on the placebo required higher dosages of the drugs.