A randomized controlled trial of loading dose alone versus pritchard regimen of magnesium sulphate, for seizure prophylaxis in severe preeclampsia
Abstract
Background: Preeclampsia poses a significant risk of maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. Magnesium sulfate superiority for seizure prophylaxis in severe preeclampsia has been proven globally. However, the search for the lowest effective dose is an area of continuing research.
Aim: The aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness of loading dose with the Pritchard regimen of magnesium sulfate for seizure prophylaxis in severe preeclampsia.
Materials and methods: A total of 138 eligible women after 28-week gestation with severe preeclampsia were randomized to either receiving a single loading dose of MgSO4 (study arm: n = 69) or Pritchard regimen of MgSO4 (control: n = 69). The effectiveness was assessed by the development of seizure. The results obtained were analyzed using SPSS version 21. Categorical variables were analyzed using the Chi-square test and normally distributed continuous variables were analyzed with t-test and Fisher's exact test. P < 0.05 was considered statistical significance.
Results: There were no significant differences between those who received only the loading dose when compared with those who had Pritchard regimen other than a single recorded convulsion among the control group (P = 0.316). Similarly, except for the duration of hospital stay which was significantly longer in the Pritchard group (P = 0.019), both the arms of the study shared similar maternal and fetal outcomes.
Conclusion: This study suggests the effectiveness of just…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a randomized trial, done in people. Its evidence level is 2 of 5 (High · randomized trial). Randomized trials of a reasonable size are the strongest single-study design. Reported size: 138 participants or records.
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