Magnesium Sulphate

Question 1

Magnesium Sulphate - Type

Answer 1

Electrolyte solution

Question 2

Magnesium Sulphate - Presentation

Answer 2

2.5g in 5ml

Question 3

Magnesium Sulphate - Actions

Answer 3

Magnesium is the second most abundant intracellular cation. Less than 1% is present in extracellular fluid. Magnesium is involved in the processes regulating sodium and potassium movement across cell membranes and, as such, it may promote myocardial cell membrane stability

Question 4

Magnesium Sulphate - Uses (3)

Answer 4

1. Torsades de pointes (polymorphic VT - often associated with prolonged QT interval
2. Refractory VF (3rd drug)
3. Seizures due to eclampsia

Question 5

Magnesium Sulphate - Adverse effects (5)

Answer 5

Rare - more common if serum magnesium is normal

1. Respiratory depression
2. Nausea and vomiting
3. Hypotension
4. Confusion
5. Bradycardia

Question 6

Magnesium Sulphate - Contraindications (3)

Answer 6

1. AV back
2. Renal failure
3. Hepatic failure

Question 7

Magnesium Sulphate - Precaution

Answer 7

Myasthenia gravis

Question 8

Magnesium Sulphate - Dose

Answer 8

Adult
- with CO - 2.5g IV diluted to 10ml over 5 min
- without CO - 2.5g IV over 30-60 sec
- eclampsia seizures - 5g IV over 10 min
Paediatric
- 50mg/kg to max 2.5g, dilute to 10ml (150mg/ml)
- with CO over 3-5 min
- without CO over 30-60 sec