Background Epidemiological and basic science evidence suggests that magnesium
sulphate before birth may be neuroprotective for the fetus. Objectives To assess the effects
of magnesium sulphate as a neuroprotective agent when given to women considered at risk
of preterm birth.

Background Magnesium sulphate is a common therapy in perinatal care. Its benefits when
given to women at risk of preterm birth for fetal neuroprotection (prevention of cerebral palsy
for children) were shown in a 2009 Cochrane review. Internationally, use of magnesium
sulphate for preterm cerebral palsy prevention is now recommended practice. As new
randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and longer‐term follow‐up of prior RCTs have since
been conducted, this review updates the previously published version. Objectives To assess …