Which of the following is NOT a sign of magnesium toxicity?

Which of the following is NOT a sign of magnesium toxicity?

• A. Diminished reflexes
• B. Respiratory depression
• C. Hyperactive reflexes
• D. Hypotension

Answer: (C)

Magnesium toxicity dampens neuromuscular transmission and can affect respiratory and cardiovascular function. When levels are high, you typically see diminished deep tendon reflexes, possible respiratory depression from weakened respiratory muscles, and hypotension from vasodilation and cardiac depression. Hyperactive reflexes, however, indicate increased neuromuscular excitability, which is more consistent with magnesium deficiency or other conditions, not toxicity. Therefore, hyperactive reflexes are not a sign of magnesium toxicity, making them the correct answer. The other signs listed—diminished reflexes, respiratory depression, and hypotension—are classic signs of magnesium toxicity.

Magnesium toxicity dampens neuromuscular transmission and can affect respiratory and cardiovascular function. When levels are high, you typically see diminished deep tendon reflexes, possible respiratory depression from weakened respiratory muscles, and hypotension from vasodilation and cardiac depression. Hyperactive reflexes, however, indicate increased neuromuscular excitability, which is more consistent with magnesium deficiency or other conditions, not toxicity. Therefore, hyperactive reflexes are not a sign of magnesium toxicity, making them the correct answer. The other signs listed—diminished reflexes, respiratory depression, and hypotension—are classic signs of magnesium toxicity.