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Prophylaxis of eclamptic seizures: current controversies
J T Repke1, S A Friedman, P W Kaplan
1Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, Maryland.
Clinical Obstetrics and Gynecology
|June 1, 1992
Summary
Magnesium sulfate is recommended for managing preeclampsia and eclampsia, but its anticonvulsant role is uncertain. Established anticonvulsant drugs are advised for eclamptic seizures until further trials clarify magnesium sulfate
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Neurology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Preeclampsia and eclampsia are poorly understood obstetric conditions.
- Management goals include diagnosis, stabilization, and delivery.
- Stabilization aims to prevent eclamptic seizures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current management strategies for preeclampsia and eclampsia.
- To evaluate the role of magnesium sulfate and established anticonvulsants.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing data and clinical opinion on treatment efficacy.
- Discussion of empiric data supporting magnesium sulfate use.
- Consideration of established antiepileptic drugs like diazepam and phenytoin.
Main Results:
- Empiric data support magnesium sulfate for preeclampsia/eclampsia management in North America.
- Limited data exist on magnesium sulfate's efficacy as a classic anticonvulsant.
- Established antiepileptic drugs show efficacy in treating eclamptic seizures.
Conclusions:
- Magnesium sulfate may play a role in moderating factors leading to eclampsia.
- Established anticonvulsant medications are recommended for seizure control in eclampsia.
- Further controlled trials are needed to clarify magnesium sulfate's role in seizure prophylaxis and treatment.