In the MAGPIE trial, magnesium sulfate was compared to placebo in women with preeclampsia. The primary finding was that magnesium sulfate reduced the risk of which of the following outcomes by approximately 58%?
- A Maternal death
- B Preterm birth before 34 weeks
- C Eclamptic convulsions ✓
- D HELLP syndrome development
Correct answer: C. Eclamptic convulsions
Explanation
The MAGPIE trial (Magnesium Sulphate for Prevention of Eclampsia, Lancet 2002) enrolled over 10,000 women with preeclampsia and demonstrated that magnesium sulfate reduced the risk of eclamptic convulsions by 58% (relative risk reduction) compared to placebo. There was also a non-significant trend toward reduced maternal mortality. It did not significantly alter rates of preterm birth or HELLP syndrome progression.
Reference: Williams Obstetrics, 26th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.