Effects of sympathomimetic tocolytic agents on the fetus

Abstract

The variety of factors controlling the onset of parturition, äs well äs the very complex mechanisms which physiologically maintain pregnancy by inhibiting uterine contractions are only partially understood today. As long äs the triggering mechanisms, and the conditions favoring timely and early labor are incompletely known, symptomatic therapeutic attempts aim at blocking unwanted contractile activity of the uterine smooth muscle fibres. The high rates of neonatal mortality and morbidity associated with premature births [52] have stimulated efforts to find agents which safely inhibit uterine contractions in humans.

Maternal and Fetal Plasma Renin Activity during Ritodrine Infusion to the Mother

“…As presented in review articles (14), 0-sympathomimetic therapy to the mother can lead to several hemodynamic and metabolic changes in the mother and fetus. However, no information on the effect of j3-sympathomimetics on the maternal and fetal PRA is available.…”

Long‐term follow‐up of children prenatally exposed to ritodrine

“…Theoretically there are two ways in which the fetus may be influenced if the mother is treated with sympathomimetic tocolytic agents: indirectly by maternal cardiovascular and metabolic alterations, and directly by the tocolytic drug (Unbehaun 1974). According to Swaab & Mirrniran (1984) 'those chemical compounds which are of importance for adult brain function appear in general to be involved in brain development as well'.…”

Pulmonary edema occurring after isoxsuprine and dexamethasone treatment for preterm labor: Case report

“…In addition to the maternal problems, several neonatal complications have been reported after maternal treatment with beta-adrenergic agents. Most commonly recognized are hypoglycemia, hypotension, hypocalcemia and death [1, 5,11,28].…”