[Neuroprotection for preterm infants with antenatal magnesium sulphate].

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate in preterm born children the neuroprotective benefits and the risks, at short- and long-term outcome, of the antenatal administration of magnesium sulphate (MgSO4 ) in women at imminent risk of preterm delivery.

MATERIAL AND METHODS: Computer databases Medline, the Cochrane Library and the recommendations of various international scientific societies.

RESULTS: Given the demonstrated benefit of antenatal MgSO4 intravenous administration on the reduction of cerebral palsy rates and the improvement of motor development in children born preterm, it is recommended for all women whose imminent delivery is expected or programmed before 32 weeks of gestation (WG) (grade A). The analysis of the literature finds no argument for greater benefit of antenatal MgSO4 administration in sub-groups of gestational age, or depending on the type of pregnancy (single or multiple pregnancy) or with the cause of preterm birth (NP2). Its administration is recommended before 32 WG, if single or multiple pregnancy, whatever the cause of prematurity (grade B). It is recommended 4g loading dose (professional consensus). With a loading dose of 4g intravenous (IV) in 20min, the serum magnesium is lower than with intramuscular suggesting a preference for the IV route (professional consensus). It is proposed to use a maintenance dose of 1g/h until delivery with a maximum recommended duration of 12hours without exceeding a cumulative dose of 50g (professional consensus). These doses are without severe adverse maternal side effects or adverse effects in newborns at short- and medium-term outcome (NP1).

CONCLUSION: It is recommended to administer magnesium sulfate to the women at high risk of imminent preterm birth before 32 WG, whether expected or planned (grade A), with a 4g IV loading dose followed by a maintenance dose of 1g/h for 12hours (professional consensus), the pregnancy is single or multiple, whatever the cause of prematurity (professional consensus).