The Changing Role of Magnesium in Obstetric Practice

Magnesium is an intracellular cation that functions as a cofactor in many biological processes, including calcium channel gating, release of neurotransmitters, modulation of vasomotor tone, and regulation of energy reactions. The role of magnesium in such processes makes it clinically applicable in many situations, especially obstetric practice. However, these same functions also result in the side effects and drug interactions associated with magnesium use, and, thus, necessitate careful administration. Peripartum use of magnesium sulfate has been well studied for tocolysis, preeclampsia and the prevention of progression to eclampsia, antiepileptic treatment in eclampsia, and neuroprotection of fetuses during preterm labor.
Source: Anesthesiology Clinics - Category: Anesthesiology Authors: Source Type: research