EFFICACY OF MAGNESIUM SULFATE IN ATTENUATING THE HEMODYNAMIC RESPONSE TO LARYNGOSCOPY AND ENDOTRACHEAL INTUBATION

Background: Laryngoscopy and endotracheal intubation are known to cause a transient but marked sympathetic response, leading to increased heart rate and blood pressure. This response can be hazardous, particularly in patients with cardiovascular disease. Magnesium sulfate, due to its calcium channel-blocking and sympatholytic effects, may offer protective benefits. Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of intravenous magnesium sulfate in attenuating cardiovascular responses during laryngoscopy and endotracheal intubation. Methods: This prospective, randomized clinical study included adult patients scheduled for elective surgery under general anesthesia. Patients were assigned to two groups: Group A received magnesium sulfate 30 mg/kg IV before intubation, while Group B served as control. Heart rate (HR), systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic BP (DBP), and mean arterial pressure (MAP) were recorded at baseline, 30 seconds after drug administration, during laryngoscopy, and at intervals post-intubation. Results: Group A demonstrated significantly lower HR and BP rises during and after intubation compared to Group B (p < 0.05). No adverse effects were observed. Conclusion: Magnesium sulfate effectively blunts the hemodynamic response to laryngoscopy and intubation, and can be a useful adjunct in general anesthesia, particularly in patients at risk of cardiovascular complications.