Continuous Magnesium Sulfate Infusions for Status Asthmaticus in Children: A Systematic Review.

Summary

A systematic review of eight reports (447 children) describing prolonged magnesium sulfate infusions lasting one hour or more for paediatric status asthmaticus. It summarises the wide variability in bolus and infusion regimens, the limited reporting of clinical outcomes, monitoring of serum magnesium concentrations, and adverse events such as hypotension, nausea and vomiting, muscle weakness and flushing, which were largely seen with infusions beyond 24 hours. Relevant to PICU and emergency clinicians managing refractory asthma, the authors conclude that prolonged infusions should be reserved for refractory disease pending further research.

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