Betamimetics for suspected impaired fetal growth.
BACKGROUND
Betamimetic drugs may promote fetal growth by increasing the availability of nutrients and by decreasing vascular resistance. They may also induce adverse effects via their effects on carbohydrate metabolism.


OBJECTIVE
The objective of this review was to assess the effects of betamimetic therapy for suspected impaired fetal growth on fetal growth and perinatal outcome.


METHODS
We searched the Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth Group trials register and the Cochrane Controlled Trials Register. Date of the latest search: 31 May 2001.


METHODS
Randomised trials of betamimetic therapy compared with no betamimetic therapy or placebo in women with suspected impaired fetal growth.


METHODS
Eligibility and trial quality was assessed.


RESULTS
Two studies of 118 women were included. No differences were found between the betamimetic groups and the control groups for low birth weight (relative risk 1.17, 95% confidence interval 0.75 to 1.83), other anthropometric measures or neonatal morbidity and mortality.


CONCLUSIONS
Larger, well-designed studies are needed to evaluate the effects of betamimetics on fetal growth. Since there is potential for adverse effects due to the pharmacological characteristics of this group of drugs, data related to any potential harms should be collected in addition to beneficial effects.
Gülmezoglu
A M
AM
Special Department of Research, Development and Research Training in Human Reproduction, UNDP/UNFPA/WHO/World Bank, World Health Organisation, Geneva 27, Switzerland, CH-1211. gulmezoglum@who.ch
Hofmeyr
G J
GJ
D000318:Adrenergic beta-Agonists / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D005260:Female; D005317:Fetal Growth Retardation / Q000188:drug therapy*; D006801:Humans; D011247:Pregnancy; D016032:Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; D012312:Ritodrine / Q000627:therapeutic use; D015149:Tocolytic Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*
D000318:Adrenergic beta-Agonists; D015149:Tocolytic Agents; D012312:Ritodrine