The invention relates to a method of prevention or treatment of a condition such as magnesium deficiency or deficit or abnormality, creatine or creatine phosphate (phosphocreatine) deficiency or abnormality, parathyroid hormone (PTH) excess or abnormality, sodium deficiency or abnormality, potassium deficiency or abnormality, antidiuretic hormone excess or abnormality or a condition characterised by abnormal levels of parathyroid hormone related protein (PTHrP). In the method, a therapeutic quantity of a neutral to mildly alkaline solution of a magnesium salt comprising bicarbonate ions is administered to the patient.