title: [Prematurity: current role of prostaglandin synthesis inhibitors].
abstract: Prostaglandins seem to play a significant role in labor initiation; it is not surprising therefore that inhibitors of prostaglandin synthesis have been studied for the treatment of premature contractions. Controlled studies confirmed the tocolytic effect of indomethacin which is better tolerated than other drugs used in the same indication. Possible foeto-neonatal complications prevent a wider use of indomethacin. If it is given before the 32nd week of pregnancy and for less than 72 hours, the risks are acceptable. In other cases, the expected advantages and possible hazards should be carefully weighed and intensive foeto-neonatal care is required. Characterization of the phospholipases and cyclo-oxygenases specific to preterm labor will undoubtedly allow to design, in the future, a more appropriate therapeutic approach.
authors.affiliation: Katholieke Universiteit Leuven.
authors.forename: B
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Spitz
mesh_terms: D016861:Cyclooxygenase Inhibitors / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007213:Indomethacin / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D007752:Obstetric Labor, Premature / Q000188:drug therapy*; D011247:Pregnancy; D011263:Pregnancy Trimester, Third; D013997:Time Factors; D015149:Tocolytic Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*
chemical_list: D016861:Cyclooxygenase Inhibitors; D015149:Tocolytic Agents; D007213:Indomethacin
vernacular_title: Prématurité: place actuelle des inhibiteurs de synthèse des prostaglandines.