Antenatal exposure to magnesium sulfate and neuroprotection in preterm infants.

Cerebral palsy is a leading cause of childhood neuromotor disability and is strongly associated with preterm delivery. Basic science research and some observational studies have suggested a neuroprotective benefit from antenatal exposure to magnesium sulfate. Recent randomized controlled studies and meta-analyses suggest that antenatal exposure to magnesium sulfate before anticipated preterm birth is associated with reduction in the risk of developing cerebral palsy or its associated neurologic disabilities in surviving infants. More importantly. this benefit has been achieved without increasing the risk of perinatal mortality.