MAGNESIUM SULFATE: 100 years saving maternal lives. A scientific heritage of humanity

Abstract

Magnesium sulfate marks 100 years in the medical management of eclampsia. Lazard, starting in May 1924 at the Los Angeles General Hospital, collected clinical evidence of its benefits on the mortality associated with pregnancy convulsions. Doses, regimens, and dilutions were analyzed, revealing therapeutic safety for both mother and fetus. By the end of the 20th century, randomized clinical trials demonstrated the clinical utility of magnesium for the following indications: treatment of eclampsia, prevention of eclampsia, and neurological protection of the brain in preterm infants less than 32 weeks of gestation, among others. This journey has been controversial among many authorities; however, the National University of Colombia and its Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology have defended the Zuspan regimen as the ideal approach for managing these patients since 1982. Through this review, we aim to present all the evidence that has established magnesium as an essential drug for reducing maternal mortality worldwide, especially in developing countries.