Magnesium Sulfate Injections and Terbutaline Pump for Preterm Labor

Aetna covers magnesium sulfate injections for short-term (up to 48 hours) prolongation of pregnancy to permit antenatal corticosteroids, for fetal neuroprotection before anticipated delivery <32 weeks, and for prevention/treatment of seizures in preeclampsia/eclampsia in pregnant women at risk of preterm delivery within 7 days (coverage when selection criteria and ICD‑10 O60.02–O60.03 are met). Use of a terbutaline subcutaneous pump (and prolonged injectable or oral terbutaline) is considered experimental/investigational or contraindicated for prevention/maintenance tocolysis due to unproven benefit and serious safety concerns (FDA warns against use beyond 48–72 hours), and prolonged magnesium sulfate tocolysis is likewise not supported.

"Aetna considers magnesium sulfate injections medically necessary for short-term prolongation of pregnancy (up to 48 hours) in pregnant women who are at risk of preterm delivery within 7 days."