Magnesium sulphate

Magnesium Sulphate, commonly known as Epsom salt, is an inorganic salt containing magnesium, sulfur, and oxygen. It is widely used for its laxative properties and as a treatment for eclampsia in pregnant women. Magnesium Sulphate can also be used as a bronchodilator in acute asthma and to correct magnesium deficiencies.

Indications

-Treatment of eclampsia and pre-eclampsia in pregnant women. -Management of acute asthma. -Correction of hypomagnesemia. -Laxative for relieving occasional constipation. -Soaking solution to relieve minor aches and pains.

Contra-Indications

-Severe renal impairment. -Myasthenia gravis. -Hypersensitivity to Magnesium Sulphate. -Heart block.

Special Precautions

-Use cautiously in patients with renal impairment. -Monitor serum magnesium levels during treatment. -Use with caution in patients with neuromuscular diseases. -Ensure proper dilution and slow administration when given IV to avoid cardiac complications.

Side Effects

-Flushing -Hypotension -Drowsiness -Diarrhea (when taken orally as a laxative) -Muscle weakness -Respiratory depression (in case of overdose) -Heart block (in case of overdose)

Drug Interactions

-CNS depressants: Enhanced CNS depression. -Muscle relaxants: Increased risk of respiratory depression. -Calcium channel blockers: Potential additive hypotensive effect. -Digitalis glycosides: Potential for cardiac conduction abnormalities. -Antibiotics like aminoglycosides: Increased risk of neuromuscular blockade.