Does Fetal Exposure to Magnesium Sulfate Prevent Cerebral Palsy in Preterm Infants?

Early preterm infants are at risk for cerebral palsy (CP), a condition characterized by impaired control of movement and posture that results from damage to the developing brain. Evidence suggests that magnesium sulfate, administered maternally before premature delivery, can protect the fetal brain and, therefore, might help prevent CP. To test this strategy, investigators conducted a multicenter trial involving women (mean age, 26) who were carrying singletons or twins at 24 to 31 weeks’ gestation (mean gestational age, 28 weeks) and who were at high risk for imminent spontaneous preterm delivery. Participants were randomized to receive intravenous magnesium sulfate (6 g loading dose, followed by maintenance infusion of 2 g per hour) or pl…