General Drug Information and Indications

Magnesium sulfate for treatment of hypomagnesemia, grass tetany, impaction colic (laxative), and tocolysis in horses; IV or oral routes. Magnesium sulfate — provides Mg2+ (essential cofactor, neuromuscular junction calcium antagonist) and sulfate. Mechanisms: IV — treats hypomagnesemia; tocolysis (inhibits uterine contraction); GI cathartic (oral); topical drawing agent. Narrow safety margin IV — slow infusion required. Key information Magnesium sulfate injectable — see magnesium sulfate entry. IV: administer slowly. Antidote: calcium gluconate. Monitor respiratory rate.

How to Give this Medication

IV: dilute to ≤20%; infuse slowly by CRI with ECG monitoring. Antidote (calcium gluconate IV) must be available. Oral cathartic: dissolve in water. Topical: dissolve in warm water for soaks. Store at room temperature; protect from light. If a dose is missed This medication is administered by a veterinarian or veterinary staff in a clinical setting. Missed doses are managed by your veterinary team — contact your veterinarian to reschedule.

Side Effects

IV: hypotension, respiratory depression, neuromuscular blockade, cardiac arrest (overdose/rapid infusion — monitor calcium as antidote). Oral: diarrhea, dehydration (osmotic cathartic). Oral high dose in horses: abdominal cramping. Hypermagnesemia with impaired renal function.

Precautions

For animals IV: administer slowly with ECG and respiratory monitoring — rapid infusion causes neuromuscular blockade, respiratory arrest, cardiac arrest. Antidote: calcium gluconate IV. Oral cathartic: ensure adequate hydration. Reduce dose or extend interval in renal impairment. — use with caution (impaired Mg2+ excretion). For people handling this medication Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. Avoid contact with eyes; if contact occurs, flush with water for 15 minutes and seek medical attention. Keep out of reach of children. If accidental ingestion occurs, contact Poison Control (1-800-222-1222). Generally safe to handle. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. Topical Epsom salt: safe for skin contact in dilute form.

Overdose

Contact your veterinarian immediately. Magnesium overdose causes respiratory depression and cardiac effects.

Magnesium Su Inj dosage forms

ProductStrengthFormSizeType
MAGNESIUM SU INJ 50%—Injectable—Commercial
MAGNESIUM SU INJ 50%—Injectable—Commercial

Sources

This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for advice from your veterinarian. Source: Merck Veterinary Manual (merckvetmanual.com); Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook (Plumb, D.C., app.plumbs.com)