Medical uses of magnesium sulfate
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Magnesium sulfate as a medication is used to treat and prevent low blood magnesium and seizures in women with eclampsia.[1] It is also used in the treatment of torsades de pointes, severe asthma exacerbations, constipation, and barium poisoning.[1][2] It is given by injection into a vein or muscle as well as by mouth.[1][2] As epsom salts, it is also used for mineral baths.[3]
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Trade names | Epsom salt, others |
AHFS/Drugs.com | Monograph |
Routes of administration | IV, IM, by mouth, topical |
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Formula | MgSO4 – 7H2O |
Molar mass | 120.366 |
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Common side effects include low blood pressure, skin flushing, and low blood calcium.[1] Other side effects may include vomiting, muscle weakness, and decreased breathing.[4] While there is evidence that use during pregnancy may harm the baby, the benefits in certain conditions are greater than the risks.[5] Its use during breastfeeding is deemed to be safe.[5] The way it works is not fully understood, but is believed to involve depressing the action of neurons.[1]
Magnesium sulfate came into medical use at least as early as 1618.[6] It is on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines.[7][8] In 2021, magnesium salts were the 211th most commonly prescribed medication, with more than 2 million prescriptions.[9][10]