What it means
The formula for magnesium sulfatemag-NEE-zee-um SUL-fateA magnesium salt given by IV or IM to raise a low magnesium level or prevent seizures in severe preeclampsia.Full entry , an IV drug used, for example, to prevent seizures in preeclampsia. Written in an order, MgSO4 has been misread as MSO4, morphine sulfate, with harmful results. The Joint Commission's "Do Not Use" list bans MgSO4, MSO4 and MS: write "magnesium sulfate" in full.
For the nurse
If an order says MgSO4, contact the prescriber to confirm the full drug name before giving it, and write the full name yourself.
At a glance
| Also written | MgSO₄ |
|---|
Related terms
MS
An abbreviation that can stand for morphine sulfate, magnesium sulfate or multiple sclerosis.
magnesium sulfate
A magnesium salt given by IV or IM to raise a low magnesium level or prevent seizures in severe preeclampsia.
MSO4
The shorthand for morphine sulfate, banned from medication orders by the Joint Commission.
magnesium sulfate toxicity
Harm from a blood magnesium level that rises too high, usually during magnesium sulfate treatment.