Association between the use of magnesium sulfate as neuroprotector in prematurity and the neonatal hemodynamic effects

Purpose: Cerebral palsy is often associated with prematurity and magnesium sulfate (MgSO₄) has been used as a neuroprotector, with favorable results. However, its mechanism of action has not been fully elucidated. This study aimed to evaluate the association between MgSO₄ at the imminent premature delivery and neonatal hemodynamic effects.

Materials and methods: A cross-sectional study involving 94 newborns (NB) between 24 and 32?weeks at a Brazilian hospital was performed. Bivariate analysis between the use or the non-use of MgSO₄ and hemodynamic characteristics was performed, using the Chi-square test.

Results: NB were evaluated between those who received MgSO₄ (27.7) and those who did not (72.3%). Normal heart rate was verified in 62.8% of NB, normal respiratory rate in 70.2%, and normal temperature in 22.3%. Oxygen saturation higher or equal than 95% was evidenced in 85.1% of NB, normal hemoglucotest in 74.5%, and hemoglobin greater or equal than 16.4?g/dL in 30.9%. Non-invasive ventilation was performed in 48.9% of NB, while 51.1% were submitted to endotracheal ventilation. There was no significance relation detected between the use of MgSO₄ and the hemodynamic characteristics.

Conclusions: MgSO₄ does not appear to influence hemodynamic factors as a cause of the neuroprotection in premature NB.