magnesiumsulfaatheptahydraat

Magnesium sulfate is an inorganic salt with the chemical formula MgSO4. It forms several hydrates, the most common being the heptahydrate MgSO4·7H2O, known as Epsom salt. In nature it occurs in evaporite minerals such as kieserite (MgSO4·H2O) and epsomite (MgSO4·7H2O).

Magnesium sulfate can be obtained from natural brines or produced by reacting magnesium oxide or magnesium hydroxide with sulfuric acid, followed by crystallization. It readily dissolves in water to yield hydrated magnesium and sulfate ions, and exists in several hydrated forms depending on conditions.

Uses of magnesium sulfate span medicine, agriculture, and industry. In medicine, it is used orally as a laxative and as a magnesium supplement to treat deficiency. Intravenous magnesium sulfate is employed to prevent and treat seizures in preeclampsia and eclampsia and is used in some cases as a tocolytic. In agriculture, it provides magnesium for crops and can improve plant health in magnesium-deficient soils. In laboratory and industrial settings, it serves as a drying agent for organic solvents and as a source of Mg2+ in chemical syntheses.

Safety and handling should be considered. Magnesium sulfate is generally safe when used as directed, but high doses can cause diarrhea and electrolyte disturbances. Intravenous use requires medical supervision due to potential cardiovascular and respiratory effects. People with kidney impairment should use it under professional guidance because elimination depends on kidney function. As with any pharmaceutical or chemical, storage should be in a dry, labeled container away from incompatible substances.