User:Mr. Ibrahem/Magnesium sulfate (medical use)
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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]
Clinical data | |
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Trade names | Epsom salt, others |
AHFS/Drugs.com | Monograph |
Routes of administration | IV, IM, by mouth, topical |
Chemical and physical data | |
Formula | MgSO4 - 7H2O |
Molar mass | 120.366 |
3D model (JSmol) | |
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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] Magnesium sulfate for medical use is the magnesium sulfate heptahydrate salt.[2] 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] The wholesale cost in the developing world is about US$0.35–8.73 per 10 ml of 50% solution.[8] In the United Kingdom 4 ml of 20% solution costs the NHS about 10.23 pounds.[2] In the United States a course of medication typically costs less than $25.[9]