Abstract

Background: The use of magnesium sulfate in the prevention of eclampsia among patients with severe pre-eclampsia is an accepted standard of care. Usually it is initiated before delivery and continued for 24 hours following delivery. The therapy does have complications and so it requires close supervision and monitoring.

Aim: The purpose of this study was to compare a shorter duration (6 hours postpartum) of magnesium sulfate with the conventional 24 hours postpartum use of magnesium sulfate for prevention of eclampsia in cases of severe pre-eclampsia. Methods: It was a randomized controlled study carried on 150 pregnant women with severe pre-eclampsia. These were assigned to receive Magnesium sulfate for either 6 hours postdelivery (study group) or 24 hours post-delivery (control group) in 1:1 ratio.

Results: One episode of convulsion occurred at the 68th hour in the control group (24 hours). Mean total duration of magnesium sulfate exposure was 20 hours greater in the control group than the intervention group. The average stay in ICU was17 hours more in the 24 hours group and the average hospital stay was 2 days longer in 24 hours group.

Conclusion: The study concludes the abbreviated 6 hours postpartum regimen is an effective alternative to the conventional 24 hours postpartum regimen for uncomplicated severe preeclamptic patients for prophylaxis against eclampsia with the benefits of lesser dose and duration of magnesium sulfate, shorter ICU stay, shorter hospital stay and early mobilization.