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Multiple Choice

Magnesium sulfate is indicated for torsades de pointes.

Magnesium sulfate is used for torsades de pointes because this polymorphic ventricular tachycardia is driven by electrical instability that magnesium helps calm. It stabilizes cardiac cell membranes and reduces the early afterdepolarizations that often trigger TdP, effectively interrupting the abnormal rhythm. Importantly, it works even if the patient’s serum magnesium is normal, which is why it’s a first-line treatment in TdP. The typical approach is an IV bolus of magnesium sulfate, with dosing adjusted by clinical response and repeated if needed, while correcting any contributing factors like electrolyte disturbances or offending drugs. This effect is observed in both adults and children, so the statement is true.

Magnesium sulfate is used for torsades de pointes because this polymorphic ventricular tachycardia is driven by electrical instability that magnesium helps calm. It stabilizes cardiac cell membranes and reduces the early afterdepolarizations that often trigger TdP, effectively interrupting the abnormal rhythm. Importantly, it works even if the patient’s serum magnesium is normal, which is why it’s a first-line treatment in TdP. The typical approach is an IV bolus of magnesium sulfate, with dosing adjusted by clinical response and repeated if needed, while correcting any contributing factors like electrolyte disturbances or offending drugs. This effect is observed in both adults and children, so the statement is true.