Eclampsia, seizures associated with pre-eclampsia, remains a common and
serious complication of pregnancy. A number of different anticonvulsants are
used to control eclamptic seizures and to prevent further seizures.
Key messages
􀃎 The use of magnesium sulphate in comparison with diazepam for the
treatment of eclampsia reduces the risk of maternal death and recurrence
of seizures.
􀃎 Other effects on maternal morbidity, or perinatal morbidity and mortality
are still not clear.