Magnesium, a drug of diverse use

Mohammad Irfan Akhtar, Hameed Ullah, Mohammad Hamid

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

23 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Magnesium has evolved as a drug with diverse clinical applications. Mg++ is an important caution and its homeostasis is very important for normal body functioning. The physiological role of Mg is due to its calcium channel blocking properties at smooth muscle, skeletal muscle and conduction system levels. The analgesic properties are due to NMDA receptor blocking action. Mg++ is beneficial in acute Myocardial Infarction, protection during open heart surgery and treatment and prevention of heart rhythm disturbances. Mg has an established role in the management of preeclampsia and eclampsia. Magnesium prevents or controls convulsions by blocking neuromuscular transmission and decreasing the release of acetylcholine at the motor nerve terminals. The use of MgSo4 in treating tetanus and acute asthma is established. In conclusion, Mg is a cost effective, widely used drug with multidisciplinary applications. Its majority of physiological effects are attributed to calcium channel blocking properties.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)1220-1225
Number of pages6
JournalJournal of the Pakistan Medical Association
Volume61
Issue number12
Publication statusPublished - Dec 2011

Keywords

  • Acute myocardial infarction
  • Calcium channel
  • Conduction system
  • Homeostasis
  • Magnesium

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