Magnesium Sulfate

Uses

Contraindications

Side effects

Precautions and Warnings

Uses

Magnesium Sulfate is used to treat low magnesium levels in the body (hypomagnesemia), especially when taking magnesium by mouth is not possible. It is also used to prevent and control seizures in preg...
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Contraindications

When should one not use Magnesium Sulfate

If you are allergic to Magnesium Sulfate.
If you have severely impaired kidney function, you should not use Magnesium Sulfate.

Side effects

Common side effects of this drug are:

Flushing, sweating, and thirst
Low blood pressure (hypotension)
Drowsiness, dizziness, headache
Muscle weakness or loss of tendon reflexes
Nausea and vomiting
Abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias)

Precautions and Warnings

Pregnancy

Can I take Magnesium Sulfate during pregnancy?

Magnesium Sulfate can be used in pregnancy for emergencies like eclampsia, with the baby’s heart monitored. Long-term use over 5–7 days may affect the baby’s bones or calcium levels. Always consult your doctor before using this medicine.

Breast Feeding

Can I take Magnesium Sulfate while breastfeeding?

Magnesium Sulfate should only be used while breastfeeding if considered essential and prescribed by your doctor. It must always be administered under medical supervision. Always consult your doctor before using this medicine.

Driving

Can I drive if I have consumed Magnesium Sulfate?

No studies have been done to see how Magnesium Sulfate affects your ability to drive or use machines, so it’s best to be cautious and avoid these activities if you feel unwell. Always consult your doctor before using this medicine.

Alcohol

Can I consume alcohol with Magnesium Sulfate?

No information is available.

Other General Warnings

Talk to your doctor if

You have kidney problems or suspected renal impairment before using Magnesium Sulfate.
You have hepatic coma or a risk of kidney failure.
You have myasthenia gravis, as magnesium may worsen muscle weakness.
You are receiving Magnesium Sulfate treatment, so your calcium levels can be monitored regularly.

Mode of Action

How Does It Work?

Magnesium Sulfate works by restoring normal magnesium levels in the body, which is important for nerve and muscle function. In conditions like eclampsia, it helps calm overactive nerves in the brain, ...

Interactions

Interactions with other medicines

Use with digitalis glycosides with caution, as magnesium may affect heart function.
Avoid concomitant use with high doses of barbiturates, opioids, or hypnotics due to risk of respiratory depression.
Magnesium can potentiate and prolong the effects of non-depolarising muscle relaxants such as tubocurarine.
Concomitant use with calcium channel blockers like nifedipine or nimodipine may rarely cause calcium imbalance and abnormal muscle function.
Neuromuscular blocking effects may be additive when used with aminoglycoside antibiotics.

Dosage

Overdose

If you think you have taken too much of this medicine, contact your doctor immediately or visit the nearest hospital.

Missed a Dose

If you missed a dose of the medicine, take it as soon as you remember. If it is time for your next dose, then skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double ...

Content Details

WRITTEN BY

Ravindra Ghongade

B. Pharm

REVIEWED BY

Dr. Nikita Toshi

BDS (Bachelor of Dental Surgery), WHO FIDES member

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is Magnesium Sulfate used for?

A: Magnesium Sulfate is used to treat low magnesium levels in the body and to prevent or control seizures in pregnant women with eclampsia.

Q: What are the side effects of Magnesium Sulfate?

Common side effects include pain or burning at the injection site, flushing, sweating, thirst, low blood pressure, drowsiness, dizziness, headache, muscle weakness, nausea, vomiting, abnormal heart rh...
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Q: Who should consult a doctor before using Magnesium Sulfate?

Consult your doctor if you have kidney or liver problems, myasthenia gravis, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you experience severe abdominal pain, dehydration, or unusual symptoms.

References

Last Updated on: 09 Dec 2025 | 01:04 AM (IST)

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