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Magnesium infusion is thought to be potentially beneficial for reducing cerebral vasospasm. Its protective properties could be mediated in part through reduction of glutamate release. In patients with subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH), delayed cerebral ischemia — frequently attributed to vasospasm — is a leading cause of morbidity and death. Small studies had suggested that magnesium could be beneficial in reducing the rate of vasospasm after SAH. Now, investigators have conducted a large, phase III study, randomizing 1204 patients (mean age, 57; 70% female) to receive a daily infusion of either 64 mmol of magnesium sulfate or placebo, starting within 4 days after SAH. Treatment duration was 20 days or until hospital discharge or death. The pri…