Early Use of IV Magnesium Sulfate for Moderate Asthma Attacks in Children Ages 5 to 17

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating whether giving intravenous magnesium sulfate early in moderate asthma attacks can reduce hospital admissions, shorten the time spent in the emergency department and hospital, and lessen the need for breathing support in children aged 5 to 17. This study focuses on moderate asthma exacerbations and aims to compare early magnesium treatment with standard care to understand its potential benefits. The research is conducted by the University of Oklahoma and involves children presenting at a hospital emergency department with a moderate respiratory score. Participants are randomly assigned to one of two groups after consent one group receives a weight-based dose of IV magnesium sulfate within the first hour of treatment alongside standard asthma therapies such as inhaled beta agonists and IV steroids. The dosing varies by weight, ranging from 750 mg to 2000 mg. The other group does not receive magnesium sulfate within the first hour but may be given it later if deemed necessary by the provider. Both groups will be monitored throughout their hospital stay. During the study, patients clinical progress will be tracked, including length of stay in the emergency department and hospital, the need for respiratory support, and pediatric intensive care unit stay if applicable. Researchers will collect data up to one week for length of stay outcomes and up to two weeks for respiratory support needs. The study runs from late 2023 to mid-2024 and includes assessments of the impact of early magnesium treatment on asthma exacerbation management in children.

Timely Administration of IV Magnesium Sulfate in Patients With a Moderate Asthma Exacerbation