Preterm labour and birth

Recommendation ID: NG25/4
Question: Magnesium sulfate for neuroprotection: bolus plus infusion compared with bolus alone:- What is the clinical effectiveness of a bolus plus infusion of magnesium sulfate compared with a bolus alone for preventing neurodevelopmental injury in babies born preterm?
Any explanatory notes (if applicable): Why this is important:- There is evidence from randomised studies that magnesium sulfate has neuroprotective properties for the baby when given to women who will deliver preterm up to 34+0 weeks of pregnancy. However, there is uncertainty about the best method of administering magnesium sulfate for this purpose, with different studies using different strategies. There are significant advantages for the woman and for reducing healthcare costs if a bolus is as effective as a bolus plus infusion, because magnesium sulfate has side effects for the woman, and more monitoring is needed for infusion, with additional associated healthcare costs. A randomised controlled trial would best address this question by assessing the effects of each method on neonatal and maternal outcomes.

Source guidance details

Is this a recommendation for the use of a technology only in the context of research?	No
Is it a recommendation that suggests collection of data or the establishment of a register?	No
Last Reviewed	30/11/2015