Prenatal exposure to magnesium sulfate during pregnancy has been associated with a reduction in the risk for which condition?

• A. Cerebral palsy
• B. Patent ductus arteriosus
• C. Persistent pulmonary hypertension
• D. Neonatal sepsis

Answer: (A)

Antental magnesium sulfate provides fetal neuroprotection for fetuses at risk of preterm birth, lowering the likelihood of cerebral palsy in infants born very preterm. The protective effect is thought to come from magnesium’s ability to block NMDA receptors, reduce calcium influx, stabilize neuronal membranes, and lessen excitotoxic injury during hypoxic events that are common with preterm delivery. Large trials and analyses show a meaningful reduction in cerebral palsy risk when magnesium is given to women expected to deliver before 32 weeks. It does not reduce the risk of patent ductus arteriosus, persistent pulmonary hypertension, or neonatal sepsis, which are influenced by other perinatal factors and interventions.