A multicenter evaluation of intramuscular ritodrine hydrochloride as initial parenteral therapy for preterm labor management.
Ninety-four patients in documented preterm labor received three intramuscular injections of ritodrine hydrochloride over an interval of 6 hours. They subsequently received the tocolytic agent intravenously for a minimum of 6 hours. The effects of ritodrine on uterine activity and the cardiovascular system were determined. Intramuscular ritodrine hydrochloride elicited a prompt and sustained reduction in the frequency of uterine contractions. The transition to intravenous treatment was achieved without an increase in uterine activity. Seventy percent of the patients had a sustained interval of uterine quiescence, and 96% had at least a 24-hour delay in delivery. Initial parenteral therapy with intramuscular ritodrine hydrochloride is safe and effective and may provide an alternative to intravenous therapy and a means of managing preterm labor during interhospital transport of a patient.
Benedetti
T J
TJ
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington Medical Center, Seattle 98195.
Gonik
B
B
Hayashi
R H
RH
Adams
H J
HJ
D000328:Adult; D004334:Drug Administration Schedule; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007273:Injections, Intramuscular; D015993:Life Tables; D007752:Obstetric Labor, Premature / Q000517:prevention & control*; D011247:Pregnancy; D011446:Prospective Studies; D012312:Ritodrine / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D013997:Time Factors; D015145:Tocolysis
D012312:Ritodrine