Magnesium Sulfate

Magnesium sulfate is a mineral that is used in the treatment of torsades de pointes, which is a form of ventricular tachycardia.  Magnesium is also used in the treatment of digoxin-induced arrhythmias and for the treatment of pre-eclampsia and eclampsia.  Magnesium slows SA node function and prolongs conduction time of myocardial tissues.   At toxic doses, magnesium causes loss of reflexes and respiratory depression.

Class Drugs

• Magnesium sulfate

Class Mechanism of Action

Mineral necessary for transport of other ions across cell membranes including calcium, potassium, and sodium

Slows rate of SA node impulse formation

Prolongs conduction time in myocardial tissue

Induces cerebral vasodilation, resulting in reduced ischemia associated with eclampsia

Class Applications

Torsades de pointes

Digoxin-induced arrhythmias

Pre-eclampsia/Eclampsia

Adverse Effects

Loss of reflexes

Respiratory depression

Drug Table

Drug Name	Application	Comments	Image
Magnesium Sulfate			"Magazine" "Gum"