Magnesium Sulfate



Antacid; Anticonvulsant, Miscellaneous; Electrolyte Supplement, Parenteral; Laxative, Saline; Magnesium SaltReasons not to take this medicine







Magnesium Sulfate

(mag NEE zhum SUL fate)

Pharmacologic Category
Antacid; Anticonvulsant, Miscellaneous; Electrolyte Supplement, Parenteral; Laxative, Saline; Magnesium Salt
Reasons not to take this medicine
  • If you have an allergy to magnesium or any other part of the medicine.
  • Tell healthcare provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Make sure to tell about the allergy and how it affected you. This includes telling about rash; hives; itching; shortness of breath; wheezing; cough; swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat; or any other symptoms involved.
  • If you have a slow heartbeat without a working pacemaker.
What is this medicine used for?
  • This medicine is used to treat low magnesium levels.
  • This medicine is used to treat a fast heartbeat.
  • This medicine is used to treat high blood pressure during pregnancy.
  • This medicine is used to treat seizures.
  • This medicine is used to treat constipation.
  • This medicine is used to treat wounds.
How does it work?
  • Magnesium is a dietary supplement.
  • It decreases the effects of chemicals on the heart. It slows the heart down.
  • It relaxes blood vessels, lowering blood pressure.
  • It softens the stool by increasing its water content.
How is it best taken?
  • Soaks:
  • Mix powder with water.
  • Saturate a clean, white cloth with the solution.
  • Apply the cloth to affected area.
  • Soak affected area for 15-30 minutes.
  • Injection:
  • This medicine is given as a shot into a muscle or vein.
  • This medicine is given into a vein constantly for a period of time.
  • Your healthcare provider will give this medicine.
What do I do if I miss a dose? (does not apply to patients in the hospital)
  • Take a missed dose as soon as possible.
  • If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your regular schedule.
  • Do not take a double dose or extra doses.
What are the precautions when taking this medicine?
  • If you have kidney disease, talk with healthcare provider.
  • If you have myasthenia gravis, talk with healthcare provider.
  • If you have nerve disease, talk with healthcare provider.
  • Check medicines with healthcare provider. This medicine may not mix well with other medicines.
  • Tell healthcare provider if you are pregnant or plan on getting pregnant.
  • Tell healthcare provider if you are breast-feeding.
What are some possible side effects of this medicine?
  • Low blood pressure.
  • Irritation where the shot is given.
  • Diarrhea.
What should I monitor?
  • Change in condition being treated. Is it better, worse, or about the same?
  • You will be monitored closely by healthcare provider.
Reasons to call healthcare provider immediately
  • If you suspect an overdose, call your local poison control center immediately or dial 911.
  • Signs of a life-threatening reaction. These include wheezing; chest tightness; fever; itching; bad cough; blue skin color; fits; or swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat. Difficulty breathing.
  • Severe dizziness or passing out.
  • Severe flushing.
  • Feeling extremely tired or weak.
  • Significant change in thinking clearly and logically.
  • Severe diarrhea.
  • If seizures are worse or different after starting medicine.
  • Any rash.
  • No improvement in condition or feeling worse.
How should I store this medicine?
  • Store at room temperature.
  • Protect from moisture. Do not store in a bathroom or kitchen.
  • Injection:
  • You will be given this medicine in a healthcare setting. You will not store at home.
General statements
  • If you have a life-threatening allergy, wear allergy identification at all times.
  • Do not share your medicine with others and do not take anyone else's medicine.
  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children and pets.
  • Keep a list of all your medicines (prescription, natural products, supplements, vitamins, over-the-counter) with you. Give this list to healthcare provider (doctor, nurse, nurse practitioner, pharmacist, physician assistant).
  • Talk with healthcare provider before starting any new medicine, including over-the-counter, natural products, or vitamins.
Brand Names: