magnesium sulfate injection Health Article

Generic name(s):

magnesium sulfate injection

Brand name(s):

magnesium sulfate, Sulfamag

What is the most important information I should know about magnesium sulfate injection?

Magnesium sulfate injection should be administered as an injection into a muscle or intravenously by a healthcare provider. It should be administered in a clinical setting where an emergency situation can be handled properly.

What is magnesium sulfate injection?

Magnesium is a naturally occurring mineral. Magnesium is important for many systems in the body especially the muscles and nerves.

Magnesium sulfate injection is used to used to control low blood levels of magnesium (hypomagnesemia). Magnesium sulfate injection is also used for pediatric acute nephritis and to prevent seizures in severe pre-eclampsia, eclampsia, or toxemia of pregnancy.

Magnesium sulfate injection may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using magnesium sulfate injection?

Do not use magnesium sulfate injection without first talking to your doctor if you

• are dehydrated;

• have a stomach or intestinal condition;

• have kidney disease; or

• have heart disease.

You may not be able to use magnesium sulfate injection, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.

Tell your doctor about all prescription or over-the-counter medicines including vitamins, minerals, and herbal products that your are taking.

Tell your doctor if you drink alcohol or caffeine drinks regularly, if you smoke, or if you use any illegal drugs. These factors can affect the way magnesium sulfate injection works in your body.

Magnesium sulfate injection is in the FDA pregnancy category B. This means that it is not expected to harm an unborn baby. Do not use magnesium sulfate injection without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant. Do not use magnesium sulfate injection without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I use magnesium sulfate injection?

Magnesium sulfate injection should be administered as an injection into a muscle or intravenously by a healthcare provider. It should be administered in a clinical setting where an emergency situation can be handled properly.

Your healthcare provider will store magnesium sulfate injection as directed by the manufacturer.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Since the medication will be administered by a healthcare provider, missing a dose should not occur.

What happens if I overdose?

If an overdose of magnesium sulfate injection is suspected, seek emergency medical attention or contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Magnesium sulfate injection should be administered in a clinical setting where an emergency situation can be handled properly.

What should I avoid while using magnesium sulfate injection?

Tell your doctor if you drink alcohol or caffeine drinks regularly, if you smoke, or if you use any illegal drugs. These factors can affect the way magnesium sulfate injection works in your body.

What are the possible side effects of magnesium sulfate injection?

Side effects with magnesium sulfate injection are not common. Serious side effects include:

• an allergic reaction (shortness of breath; closing of the throat; hives; swelling of the lips, face, or tongue; rash; or fainting);

• heart disturbances;

• breathing difficulties;

• poor reflexes;

• confusion, extreme tiredness or weakness;

• low body temperature;

• severe headache;

• fainting;

• rash or flushing;

• vision problems; or

• nausea or vomiting.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effects you experience.