What is a common side effect of magnesium sulfate used in pregnancy?

What is a common side effect of magnesium sulfate used in pregnancy?

• A. Constipation
• B. Hypotension
• C. Respiratory depression
• D. Insomnia

Answer: (C)

Magnesium sulfate is often used in pregnancy primarily for its effectiveness in managing conditions such as preeclampsia and preventing seizures. One of the noteworthy side effects of magnesium sulfate is respiratory depression. This can occur due to the depressant effect of magnesium on the central nervous system, especially if serum magnesium levels rise too high. It is crucial to monitor patients receiving magnesium sulfate closely, as respiratory depression can lead to inadequate oxygenation for both the mother and fetus. This side effect underscores the importance of careful dosage and monitoring of magnesium levels during treatment. In contrast, while hypotension can occur with magnesium sulfate use, it is not as commonly recognized as a direct side effect in a clinical setting. Constipation is not typically associated with the use of magnesium sulfate, as magnesium can actually have a laxative effect when administered in other contexts. Insomnia is also less relevant, as magnesium is generally considered to promote relaxation and may aid in sleep rather than disrupt it. Thus, respiratory depression stands out as a significant consideration when using magnesium sulfate during pregnancy.

Magnesium sulfate is often used in pregnancy primarily for its effectiveness in managing conditions such as preeclampsia and preventing seizures. One of the noteworthy side effects of magnesium sulfate is respiratory depression. This can occur due to the depressant effect of magnesium on the central nervous system, especially if serum magnesium levels rise too high.

It is crucial to monitor patients receiving magnesium sulfate closely, as respiratory depression can lead to inadequate oxygenation for both the mother and fetus. This side effect underscores the importance of careful dosage and monitoring of magnesium levels during treatment.

In contrast, while hypotension can occur with magnesium sulfate use, it is not as commonly recognized as a direct side effect in a clinical setting. Constipation is not typically associated with the use of magnesium sulfate, as magnesium can actually have a laxative effect when administered in other contexts. Insomnia is also less relevant, as magnesium is generally considered to promote relaxation and may aid in sleep rather than disrupt it. Thus, respiratory depression stands out as a significant consideration when using magnesium sulfate during pregnancy.