What is the antidote for magnesium sulfate toxicity?

The antidote for magnesium sulfate toxicity is calcium gluconate. This is due to the fact that magnesium sulfate acts as a central nervous system depressant and can cause severe neuromuscular and respiratory effects when levels become excessively high. Calcium gluconate is effective because it works by stabilizing the cardiac membranes and counteracting the effects of elevated magnesium levels, which can lead to cardiac arrest if severe.

In situations of magnesium toxicity, calcium can help restore normal neuromuscular function and maintain proper cardiac conduction, making it a vital intervention. Additionally, calcium antagonizes the effects of magnesium in the body, thus facilitating the management of toxicity.

Other choices do not serve the necessary function:

• Magnesium oxide is a source of magnesium rather than an antidote, and it could worsen toxicity symptoms.

• Sodium bicarbonate is unrelated to magnesium's effects and is used primarily to treat metabolic acidosis.

• Vitamin K is associated with the management of anticoagulant overdoses, particularly warfarin, and does not address issues related to magnesium toxicity.

Understanding the specific mechanism of calcium gluconate in the context of magnesium toxicity highlights its critical role as an antidote.