Magnesium Sulfate Drug Card Flashcards

Study Notes

Magnesium Sulfate Overview

Trade name is Magnesium Sulfate; classified as an electrolyte and anti-inflammatory.
Acts by reducing muscle contractions and blocking neuromuscular transmission, helpful in managing seizures during pregnancy.

Mechanism of Action

Reduces acetylcholine (ACH) release at the myoneural junction, inducing uterine relaxation.
Can cause bronchodilation after beta-agonist and anticholinergic agents.

Indicators for Use

Effective in treating seizures related to eclampsia and torsades de pointes.
Used for hypomagnesemia and life-threatening dysrhythmias, particularly from digitalis toxicity.
Indicated in severe status asthmaticus or bronchoconstriction with impending respiratory failure.

Contraindications

Should not be used in patients with heart block or myocardial damage.

Side Effects

Common adverse reactions include drowsiness, CNS and respiratory depression, and risk of respiratory tract paralysis.
May cause abnormal ECG changes, AV block, hypotension, vasodilation, and hyperflexia.

Drug Interactions

Can enhance effects of other CNS depressants.
Potential serious cardiac function changes when administered with cardiac glycosides.

Dosing Guidelines for Adults

Seizure activity due to pregnancy: 1 to 4 g IV/IO over 3 minutes (maximum 30 to 40 g/day).
Cardiac arrest (hypomagnesemia or torsades de pointes): 1 to 2 g IV/IO over 5 to 20 minutes.
Torsades de pointes with pulse: Loading dose of 1 to 2 g in 50 to 100 mL D5W over 5 to 60 minutes, followed by 0.5 to 1 g/h IV.
Status asthmaticus: 1 to 2 g IV over 15 to 30 minutes.
Severe bronchoconstriction: 40 mg/kg IV, maximum 2 g.

Dosing Guidelines for Pediatrics

Pulseless VT with torsades de pointes: 25 to 50 mg/kg IV/IO of a 10% solution, maximum 2 g.
Torsades de pointes with pulses or hypomagnesemia: 25 to 50 mg/kg IV/IO over 10 to 20 minutes, maximum 2 g.
Status asthmaticus: 30 to 60 mg/kg IV/IO over 15 to 30 minutes, maximum 2 g.

Duration of Action

Immediate onset of action; peak effect is variable.
Lasts approximately 30 minutes when administered IV/IO.

Pregnancy Safety

Classified as Category D, indicating potential risks to the fetus.

Special Considerations

Avoid administration within 2 hours prior to delivery.
Maintain availability of IV calcium gluconate/chloride as an antagonist to magnesium if necessary.
Use cautiously in patients with renal failure.

Description

Test your knowledge on Magnesium Sulfate with these flashcards. This quiz covers its classification, mechanism of action, and important characteristics. Perfect for pharmacy students or healthcare professionals looking to reinforce their understanding of this essential medication.