The use of magnesium sulphate for the treatment of severe pre-eclampsia and eclampsia.

BACKGROUND Pre-eclampsia and eclampsia are important causes of maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality in the developing countries. There is need to provide the most effective management to pre-eclamptic and eclamptic patients. There is now evidence that magnesium sulphate is the most effective anticonvulsant. METHOD In this article , a literature review was made on the contribution of pre-eclampsia and eclampsia to maternal mortality and how it can be curtailed by the use of magnesium sulphate. RESULTS The drug is administered by the Pritchard or Zuspan regimen, although modifications in the two protocols have been reported. CONCLUSION A Nigerian national protocol has been developed on its use. There is need for further training of health workers on how to use this important drug.