Magnesia intravenously

Magnesia (magnesium sulfate) is a drug that is available as a solution for intramuscular and intravenous injections, as well as in the form of a powder for the preparation of an oral suspension. The drug has vasodilator, spasmolytic (with analgesic effect), anticonvulsant, antiarrhythmic, hypotonic, tocolytic (causes relaxation of the smooth muscles of the uterus), weak diuretic, choleretic and soothing properties.

The specific effect of this agent depends on the dose and mode of administration.

When is Magnesia used?

Indications for the introduction of Magnesia intravenously:

• hypertensive crisis;
• edema of the brain ;
• encephalopathy;
• eclampsia;
• the threat of premature birth (primarily due to a lack of magnesium);
• a deficiency of magnesium in the blood;
• epilepsy;
• ventricular arrhythmia or tachycardia;
• increased mental and nervous activity;
• convulsions.

The drug is not used in the first trimester of pregnancy and before the very birth. Also, magnesium sulfate is contraindicated when:

• low blood pressure;
• bradycardia;
• atrioventricular blockade;
• respiratory centers;
• renal failure;
• intestinal obstruction;
• dehydration .

You can not continue taking the medication in case of individual allergic reactions.

Side effects of intravenous application of Magnesia

With the introduction of the drug can be observed:

• redness of the face;
• sweating;
• bradycardia;
• impaired vision;
• headache.

In case of an overdose it is possible to suppress the work of the heart and the nervous system. With a high plasma concentration of magnesium (with rapid administration of the drug), it is likely that:

• nausea;
• vomiting;
• diarrhea;
• polyuria (increased urine formation).

How to administer Magnesia intravenously?

For intramuscular and intravenous injections, a 25% solution of magnesia in ampoules is used. Because the rapid administration of the drug can provoke a number of complications, for intravenous application Magnesia is diluted with saline solution or 5% glucose solution and injected with droplets. In case of side effects such as dizziness, headaches, slow heartbeat, the patient should immediately report this to the nurse. During the introduction of magnesia can be observed burning along the vein, which usually stops when the rate of administration of the drug decreases.

A single dose of the drug is usually 20 ml of a 25% solution, in severe cases it is permissible to increase the dosage to 40 ml. Depending on the indications and the patient's condition, Magnesia can be administered twice a day. In chronic renal failure, the drug should be used with caution and in a minimal dosage.