Magnesium Sulfate

Question 1

Class / Action

Answer 1

Anti-arrhythmic, Anticonvulsant, CNS Depressant, Electrolyte

1. Replaces and Maintains Magnesium Levels
2. Reduces muscle contractions by interfering with the release of acetylcholine at the myoneural junction

Question 2

Onset / Duration of Action

Answer 2

1-2min Onset / 30min Duration

Question 3

Indications

Answer 3

1. Seizures
2. Life Threatening Ventricular Arrhythmias D/T Digitalis Toxicity, Tricyclics OD (i.e. TCAs)
3. Tornadoes de Pointes
4. Respiratory Distress (Asthma)

Question 4

Contraindications

Answer 4

1. Heart Block

2. Hypocalcemia

Question 5

Precautions

Answer 5

1. Dialysis patients

2. Excessive Dose may cause Respiratory Depression / Cardiac Arrest

Question 6

Dosages / Administration

Answer 6

NOTE: Antidote is Calcium Chloride

1. ADULT DOSE:
   a. Seizures D/T Eclampsia: 4gm SLOW IV Push over 5min. MUST be given SLOWLY to Avoid Cardiac or Respiratory Distress
   b. Cardiac Arrest-Pulseless Torsades: 1-2gm/10mL NS IV/IO bolus (Max Dose: 2gm)
   c. Torsades With a Pulse: 1-2gm/50-100mL NS IV/IO Infusion over 15min (Max Dose: 2gm)
   d. Asthma: 2gm/10mL NS IV/IO Infusion over 15min
2. PEDS:
   a. Pulseless VT with Torsades: 50mg/kg/10mL NS IV/IO bolus (Max Dose: 2gm)
   b. Torsades With a Pulse: 50mg/kg/10mL NS IV/IO Infusion over 15min Max Dose: 2gm)
   c. Asthma: 50mg/kg/10mL NS IV/IO Infusion over 15min (Max Dose: 2gm)

Question 7

Adverse Reactions

Answer 7

1. CNS: Weak or Absent Reflexes, Flaccid Paralysis, Hypothermia, Drowsiness
2. CV: Slow-Weak-Pulse, Hypotension, Flushing. Monitor ECG continuously while administering
3. Respiratory Depression
   NOTE: Antidote is Calcium Chloride