Magnesium sulfate is the ideal anticonvulsant in preeclampsia-eclampsia
Article Abstract:
Preeclampsia is a complication of pregnancy marked by protein in the urine, high blood pressure and swelling, and in the case of eclampsia, convulsions. The mechanism causing eclamptic convulsions is not known. In the US, magnesium sulfate is the most commonly prescribed drug for preventing and treating convulsions. However, the efficacy and safety of magnesium sulfate have not been well established. Furthermore, magnesium sulfate is hardly used outside of the US. Evidence supporting the effectiveness of magnesium sulfate is presented. For an anticonvulsant drug to be effective, the drug should be rapid, reliable, have a predictable duration of action, be safe and nontoxic to both mother and fetus. It should be easily administered and easily monitored for side effects. A review of the research indicates that magnesium sulfate meets the criteria for an adequate anticonvulsant. Another anticonvulsant, phenytoin, requires frequent heart monitoring because of its toxic effects upon the heart. Inadequate research limits the use of phenytoin at present. It is concluded that all women with preeclampsia should receive six grams of a loading dose of magnesium sulfate, followed by a maintenance dose of two grams per hour. If the patient has a subsequent seizure, another two to four grams should be administered. Barbiturates or a paralyzing agent may be required in cases of recurrent seizures. The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology advocates the use of magnesium sulfate to treat convulsions during pregnancy, and failure to administer magnesium sulfate can have legal implications. Until adequate studies confirm the efficacy of alternative anticonvulsants, they should not be used. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)
Publication Name: American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0002-9378
Year: 1990
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A randomized comparison of oral misoprostol versus Foley catheter and oxytocin for induction of labor at term
Article Abstract:
Oral misoprostol appears to be as effective as a Foley catheter and intravenous oxytocin for inducing labor in pregnant women, unless the pregnancy is the woman's first. This was the conclusion of a study of 200 pregnant women who needed induced labor.
Publication Name: American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0002-9378
Year: 1999
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