This study evaluated the proportion of patients at risk for preterm delivery who actually delivered within 24 hours of receiving an initial course of magnesium sulfate (MgSO₄) for fetal neuroprotection, examining the real-world utilization and timing of this intervention.
Only 1 in 4 patients (approximately 25%) who received magnesium sulfate for fetal neuroprotection went on to deliver within 24 hours of the initial course.
The paper abstract does not provide full methodological details, including study design, sample size, site count, or how delivery risk was defined — limiting full appraisal of the findings.
A significant majority of patients given MgSO₄ for fetal neuroprotection do not deliver within the intended 24-hour window, raising questions about patient selection criteria and the frequency of repeat or unnecessary dosing. Clinicians should review institutional protocols for initiating MgSO₄ to ensure it is given when delivery is truly imminent.
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