Magnesium sulfate injection: how to take it safely
Magnesium sulphate injection, MgSO4
Reviewed by Pharm. Abeeb Junior
What it is for
Prevents and treats seizures (eclampsia) in severe pre-eclampsia.
How to take it
- It is given by a drip into a vein or by injections into the muscle by a midwife or doctor.
- Your breathing, reflexes and urine output are checked often.
When to take it
Given at the start and then for up to 24 hours after birth, as your doctor plans.
Take it with
Not applicable.
What to avoid
- Going home or stopping before the team says it is safe.
- Tell the team if you have kidney problems or a muscle disease called myasthenia gravis.
Possible side effects
Warmth, flushing, nausea, headache, feeling weak or sleepy.
Get help if
Slow breathing, loss of reflexes, very little urine or palpitations: tell the staff straight away. Calcium gluconate is the antidote.
This is general information, not personal medical advice. Always follow your doctor's or pharmacist's instructions and read the leaflet that comes with your medicine. Medicines and doses can differ between products and people.