• Class: Electrolyte, mineral, anti-inflammatory, antidysrhythmics

• Action: Depresses CNS, blocks peripheral neuromuscular transmission, produces anticonvulsant effects; decreases amount of acetylcholine released at end-plate by motor nerve impulse, Slows rate of SA node impulse formation in myocardium and prolongs conduction time, Promotes movement of calcium, potassium, and sodium in and out of cells and stabilizes excitable membranes

• Indications: Torsades de pointes, cardiac arrhythmias associated with hypomagnesaemia eclampsia and seizure prophylaxis in pre-eclampsia and status asthmaticus.

• Adverse Effects: Toxicity may cause muscle paralysis, weakness, hypothermia, cardiac, respiratory or CNS depression

• Contraindications: AV Blocks, GI obstruction, renal impairment

• Special Considerations: Pregnancy Class D

Dosages:

Adults:

Cardiac arrest (Torsades):

• 2g IV/IO over 2 mins

Pregnancy/Eclampsia:

• 4g added to 1000ml NS, IV wide open until seizure stops

Status Asthmaticus:

• 2g mixed in 100ml NS infuse over 20 mins.

Pediatrics:

• NONE