Magnesium sulfate for the treatment of eclampsia: a brief review.
OBJECTIVE
Magnesium sulfate is used extensively for prevention of eclamptic seizures. Empirical and clinical evidence supports the effectiveness of magnesium sulfate; however, questions remain as to its safety and mechanism. This review summarizes current evidence supporting the possible mechanisms of action and several controversies for magnesium sulfate treatment.


RESULTS
Several mechanisms are presented, including the effects of magnesium sulfate on peripheral and cerebral vasodilation, blood-brain barrier protection, and as an anticonvulsant.


CONCLUSIONS
Though the specific mechanisms of action remain unclear, the effect of magnesium sulfate in the prevention of eclampsia is likely multi-factorial. Magnesium sulfate may act as a vasodilator, with actions in the peripheral vasculature or the cerebrovasculature, to decrease peripheral vascular resistance or relieve vasoconstriction. Additionally, magnesium sulfate may also protect the blood-brain barrier and limit cerebral edema formation, or it may act through a central anticonvulsant action.
Euser
Anna G
AG
Department of Neurology, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT 05405, USA.
Cipolla
Marilyn J
MJ
D000927:Anticonvulsants / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D001812:Blood-Brain Barrier / Q000187:drug effects; D004461:Eclampsia / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000503:physiopathology; D004827:Epilepsy / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000503:physiopathology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008278:Magnesium Sulfate / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D011247:Pregnancy; D014664:Vasodilation / Q000187:drug effects
D000927:Anticonvulsants; D008278:Magnesium Sulfate