What are the side effects and precautions of magnesium sulfate

       Magnesium sulfate is a commonly used medication widely used in the medical field, such as treating constipation, hypomagnesemia, pregnancy induced hypertension, etc. However, when using magnesium sulfate, attention should be paid to its possible side effects and usage precautions.
       1、 Side effects
       Allergic reactions:
       Itching skin, rash, urticaria, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.
       If these symptoms occur, stop using immediately and seek medical help.
       Hypermagnesemia:
       Confusion, drowsiness, facial flushing, sweating, muscle weakness, increased or irregular heart rate, difficulty breathing.
       These symptoms indicate high blood magnesium levels and require immediate medical attention.
       hypotension:
       Dizziness, vertigo, blurred vision.
       These symptoms may indicate low blood pressure and require timely treatment.
       Other common side effects:
       Headache and nausea.
       These side effects usually do not require special treatment, but if they persist or worsen, a doctor should be consulted.
       Long term or excessive use:
       Long term or excessive use of magnesium sulfate may lead to constipation and paralytic intestinal obstruction.
       In rare cases, hypocalcemia may occur.
       The impact on newborns:
       Magnesium ions can pass through the placenta and may lead to neonatal hypermagnesemia, characterized by low muscle tone, poor sucking force, inactivity, and muffled crying.
       Pulmonary edema:
       A small number of pregnant women may experience pulmonary edema.

       2、 Precautions for use
       Renal function test:
       Before using magnesium sulfate, renal function should be checked. When renal dysfunction occurs, caution should be exercised and the dosage should be reduced.
       Heart problems:
       When there is myocardial damage or heart conduction block, it should be used with caution or not.
       Monitoring indicators:
       Before and during each medication, the knee tendon reflex, respiratory rate, and urine output should be checked regularly.
       If there is a significant weakening or disappearance of knee tendon reflex, or if the breathing rate is less than 14-16 times per minute, the hourly urine output is less than 25-30ml, or the 24-hour urine output is less than 600ml, the medication should be stopped in a timely manner.
       Management of acute magnesium poisoning:
       When acute magnesium poisoning occurs, calcium can be administered intravenously for rescue. The commonly used method is slow injection of 10ml of 10% calcium gluconate injection.
       Pregnant and lactating women:
       Pregnant women should use with caution, and breastfeeding women should not use it.
       Pediatric medication:
       Children under 6 years old should be particularly cautious when using magnesium sulfate and should do so under the guidance of a doctor.
       Elderly patients:
       Elderly patients, especially those aged 60 and above, should use with caution.
       Drug interactions:
       The drugs that are contraindicated for compatibility with magnesium sulfate include polymyxin B sulfate, streptomycin sulfate, calcium gluconate, dobutamine hydrochloride, procaine hydrochloride, tetracycline, penicillin, and nalfircillin.
       Drug overdose:
       Drug overdose may lead to respiratory depression and even fatal respiratory paralysis. In this case, the medication should be stopped immediately, artificial respiration should be performed, and calcium injections should be slowly administered for rescue.
       Storage conditions:
       Magnesium sulfate should be stored in a sealed and cool place.
       Magnesium sulfate is an effective medication, but attention should be paid to its possible side effects and usage precautions when using it. Especially in high-dose or long-term use, it is necessary to strictly follow the doctor's guidance and regularly monitor relevant indicators to ensure safety and effectiveness. If any discomfort symptoms occur, seek medical attention promptly.