Safety and satisfaction level of magnesium sulphate following two routes of administration for the prevention of postoperative sore throat

Background: Tracheal intubation for general anaesthesia can be associated with distressing postoperative sore throat (POST). Different pharmacological agents via different routes have been studied for its prevention, but few studies have focused on the acceptability and safety of agents employed. This study compared the safety profile with use of intravenous and nebulised magnesium sulphate (MgSO4), as well as patients’ satisfaction level. Methods: Eighty-four patients were randomized into three groups. Group I patients were nebulised with 3mls of normal saline (NS) and received 30mg/kg of IV MgSO4 in 50mls of NS. Group II patients were nebulised with 225mg (3mls) of isotonic MgSO4 and infused with 50mls of NS. Patients in group III were nebulised with 3mls of NS and infused with 50mls of NS.. Incidence of POST was assessed using a four-point scale proposed by Stout et al. The safety of MgSO4 was assessed by measuring serum magnesium levels, and Likert scale was used to assess satisfaction levels following use of study medication. Data were analysed using SPSSv22. Results: There were 84 patients with mean age of 35.2 years. Overall incidence of POST was 30.1%. Although the serum magnesium level was statistically higher among group I patients (p <0.01), all the patients in this study had serum magnesium level within the normal limit. No patient expressed dissatisfaction with the use of MgSO4. Conclusion: Magnesium sulphate, administered intravenously or by nebulisation, is effective in reducing postoperative sore throat. Patients expressed satisfaction and there was no significant rise in serum magnesium levels detected.