Is Magnesium Safe During Pregnancy
Status
cautionReason
Pregnancy use depends on the indication. Prolonged use to stop preterm labor can harm the fetus; provider review is needed.
Drug Information
Safe Amount
Dosage must be determined by your provider based on individual risk/benefit. Do not use prolonged maternal treatment beyond 5 to 7 days for preterm labor.
Effects
- Pregnancy
- Continuous use beyond 5 to 7 days in pregnancy is linked to fetal bone abnormalities.
- Mother
- Can cause magnesium toxicity, especially with kidney problems.
- Baby
- Prolonged maternal use beyond 5 to 7 days can cause low calcium, bone thinning, and fractures.
Trimester Notes
- 1st Trimester
- Use only if clearly needed and prescribed.
- 2nd Trimester
- Use only if clearly needed and prescribed.
- 3rd Trimester
- Extra caution if used for preterm labor. Prolonged use beyond 5 to 7 days may harm the baby.
Risk-Benefit Note
If used for seizure prevention in preeclampsia or eclampsia, the benefit may outweigh the risk. Do not stop or continue without your prescriber’s advice.
Conditions & Warnings
- Consult OB/GYN or prescriber
- Preeclampsia
- Eclampsia
- Preterm labor
- Kidney disease
Alternatives
- OB/GYN-guided treatment for the specific condition
- Other pregnancy-safe options depend on the diagnosis and must be chosen by your prescriber
References
- FDA Drug Safety Communication
https://www.fda.gov/files/drugs/published/View-and-Print--FDA-Drug-Safety-Communication--FDA-Recommends-Against-Prolonged-Use-of-Magnesium--Sulfate-to-Stop-Pre-term-Labor-Due-to-Bone-Changes-in-Exposed-Babies.pdf - FDA Label: Magnesium Sulfate Injection, USP 50%
https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2018/019316s024lbl.pdf - FDA Label: Magnesium Sulfate in Water for Injection
https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2013/020309s028lbl.pdf
Black Box Warning: None known.