What should you know about magnesium sulphate in asthma?

This medicine is not a routine daily asthma controller. In an acute attack, a clinician may give it through a vein when breathing remains seriously restricted despite treatments such as inhaled bronchodilators and oxygen. It can help relax airway muscles, but it does not replace a personalised asthma action plan or regular preventer treatment.

Use your reliever inhaler exactly as your action plan advises and seek urgent help if symptoms are severe or worsening. Do not try to obtain or administer magnesium sulphate yourself. Tell the emergency team about medicines, allergies, pregnancy, kidney problems, and how symptoms changed after inhalers or a nebuliser treatment.

Call emergency services for severe breathlessness, difficulty speaking, blue or grey lips, confusion, collapse, or poor response to the reliever. Chest tightness, wheezing, or cough that is rapidly worsening also needs prompt assessment. Sit upright, follow your action plan, and avoid driving yourself if breathing is seriously impaired.

Ask what made the attack severe, whether your preventer needs adjustment, when to use a spacer or nebuliser, and which warning signs mean you should seek emergency care. Ask how follow-up will check your inhaler technique and triggers.