What is the therapeutic magnesium level range to monitor for patients with preeclampsia?

The therapeutic magnesium level range to monitor for patients with preeclampsia is 4-8 mEq/L. Maintaining magnesium levels within this range is essential for the effective control of seizures in women experiencing eclampsia or severe preeclampsia. Magnesium sulfate is the medication commonly used in this scenario, as it has the dual benefit of acting as an anticonvulsant and providing neuroprotection for both the mother and the fetus.

Monitoring at the specified levels helps to prevent both subtherapeutic levels, which might not adequately prevent seizures, and hypermagnesemia, which can lead to serious complications such as respiratory depression, cardiac arrhythmias, or even cardiac arrest. Therefore, adhering to this therapeutic range is crucial for ensuring both maternal safety and effective fetal management during preeclampsia treatment.