Let's take a minute to talk about your medication.

This is a magnesium sulfate injection. This medicine treats low magnesium levels. It also can help prevent and control seizures in pregnant women who have conditions called 'pre-eclampsia' and 'eclampsia'. 

Magnesium has several other uses, too. For example, magnesium is used in preterm labor to slow down or stop contractions. In this case, it is only used for up to 7 days. During this time, doctors can give Mom and baby other medicines AND the care they need to prepare for birth. This preparation time can help the baby be as healthy as possible at birth.  

Magnesium can be injected into the muscle. It can also be given into a vein, usually in your arm. 
Most patients tolerate this medicine well, but side effects could occur. It can make you feel tired or weak. So, it's a good idea to ask for help standing up, until you know how it affects you. You could have a mild headache, sweating, nausea, or a dry mouth. Tell your nurse if you think you are having side effects.

When magnesium is used during pregnancy, the baby will be checked for side effects. The baby could appear drowsy, breath slowly, or have weak muscles. Treatment will be given if needed.

As with any medicine, less common but more serious side effects could occur. With magnesium, these include low blood pressure, low calcium, breathing problems, double vision, slurred speech or weak muscles. These effects are not likely with usual doses. To help keep this medicine safe for you, your doctor and nurse will monitor for these effects closely, and treat them if needed.

For best results with magnesium, ask your doctor or nurse about any questions or concerns you may have.