MAGNESIUM SULPHATE
Magnesium sulphate has two very different lives. As an injection it is a hospital medicine used in obstetrics and emergency care, and as Epsom salt it is a household product used in soaks and as an occasional laxative.
What Magnesium Sulphate Is Used For
- Preventing and treating fits in pre eclampsia and eclampsia
- Severe asthma attacks, given intravenously in hospital
- Correcting low blood magnesium
- Epsom salt soaks and short term use as a laxative
Common Side Effects
- Flushing and a feeling of warmth during infusion
- Nausea and drowsiness
- Loose motions with oral use
- Weakness or low blood pressure at higher levels
Precautions
The injectable form is given only in hospital, where breathing, reflexes and urine output are monitored throughout. For home use, Epsom salt as a laxative is not for regular use and is unsafe for anyone with kidney disease. Constipation that keeps returning needs a look at diet, fluids and any underlying cause.
This page is general information only. It is not a substitute for advice from your doctor or pharmacist, and it does not include dosage. Always follow the directions given to you and read the leaflet inside the pack.
