certain drugs can help stop preterm labour
February 2001
A new gov't report shows that certain drugs can help stop preterm labour...but aren't useful for maintenance therapy after contractions have stopped.
At best, tocolytics may delay birth long enough to give steroids to help the baby's lungs mature...or antibiotics to prolong pregnancy.
If a tocolytic is needed, recommend using a beta-agonist (terbutaline)...calcium blocker (nifedipine)...magnesium sulfate...or NSAID (indomethacin).
Get concise advice on drug therapy, plus unlimited access to CE
Pharmacist's Letter Canada includes:
- 12 issues every year, with brief articles about new meds and hot topics
- 200+ CE courses, including the popular CE-in-the-Letter
- Quick reference drug comparison charts
- Access to the entire archive