Magnesium sulfate in preeclampsia is primarily used for which purpose?

Magnesium sulfate in preeclampsia is primarily used for which purpose?

• A. Anticonvulsant prophylaxis
• B. BP lowering alone
• C. Fetal growth acceleration
• D. Antibiotic prophylaxis

Answer: (A)

Magnesium sulfate in preeclampsia is used to prevent seizures. It acts as a CNS depressant, stabilizing neuronal membranes and reducing cerebral excitability, which lowers the risk of progression from preeclampsia to eclampsia. This seizure-prevention role is the main reason it’s given. It isn’t primarily for lowering blood pressure—that requires antihypertensive meds—nor does it promote fetal growth or serve as antibiotic prophylaxis. In practice, you monitor for magnesium toxicity (like diminished reflexes or respiratory depression) and have calcium gluconate ready as an antidote.

Magnesium sulfate in preeclampsia is used to prevent seizures. It acts as a CNS depressant, stabilizing neuronal membranes and reducing cerebral excitability, which lowers the risk of progression from preeclampsia to eclampsia. This seizure-prevention role is the main reason it’s given. It isn’t primarily for lowering blood pressure—that requires antihypertensive meds—nor does it promote fetal growth or serve as antibiotic prophylaxis. In practice, you monitor for magnesium toxicity (like diminished reflexes or respiratory depression) and have calcium gluconate ready as an antidote.