The Magpie Trial (2002) demonstrated the efficacy of magnesium sulphate for which purpose in women with pre-eclampsia?
- A Reducing blood pressure to safe levels in severe hypertension
- B Reducing maternal mortality from HELLP syndrome
- C Preventing eclampsia in women with pre-eclampsia, with a 58% reduction in risk ✓
- D Improving fetal growth restriction outcomes
Correct answer: C. Preventing eclampsia in women with pre-eclampsia, with a 58% reduction in risk
Explanation
The Magpie Trial (Lancet 2002) was the largest RCT of MgSO4 for pre-eclampsia, enrolling 10,141 women worldwide. It demonstrated that MgSO4 reduced the risk of eclampsia by 58% (RR 0.42, 95% CI 0.29–0.60) compared to placebo, establishing it as the standard prophylaxis and treatment for eclampsia. It also showed a non-significant reduction in maternal mortality (RR 0.55). The number needed to treat was 63 to prevent one episode of eclampsia.
Reference: Williams Obstetrics, 26th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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