Abstract
BACKGROUND: Magnesium sulphate (MgSO(4)) administered for twenty-four hours is the drug of choice for seizure prophylaxis in patients with preeclampsia with severe features. Due to its narrow therapeutic index, a reduction in the duration of MgSO(4) administered in the postpartum period may not only prevent the occurrence of seizures but also reduce the adverse effects associated with this drug. This study aimed to compare the efficacy of the 12-hour and 24-hour Pritchard's MgSO4 maintenance regimen on the occurrence of seizures and maternal outcomes in patients with preeclampsia with severe features. METHODOLOGY: A triple-blind randomized controlled trial was conducted among women with preeclampsia with severe features between 1st June 2022 and January 31st, 2023. The primary outcome measure was the occurrence of seizure in either arm of the study. One hundred and forty-six women were randomized into two groups, those who received a 12-hour MgSO(4) regimen and placebo for the remaining twelve hours (Group I) and those who received a 24-hour MgSO(4) regimen in the postpartum period (Group II). The collected data was coded and analyzed using Statistical Product and Service Solutions (SPSS) version 26 and p<0.05 was considered significant. RESULTS: There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups concerning the occurrence of seizures, the need to recommence MgSO(4), clinical evidence of toxicity and adverse effects of MgSO4. There was also no statistically significant difference between the two groups in the total dose of MgSO4 administered, duration of urethral catheterization and duration of hospital admission. No maternal mortality was recorded in this study. CONCLUSION: The results of this study suggest that the 12-hour MgSO(4) maintenance regimen is as efficacious as the traditional 24-hour regimen in preventing seizures without worsening maternal outcomes.