High and low dose oxytocin in augmentation of labor.
OBJECTIVE
To compare the efficacy and safety of high dose oxytocin in the augmentation of labor.


METHODS
Two hundred pregnant women requiring augmentation of labor were randomly assigned to receive oxytocin by either a low dose protocol (1.5 microm/min initially, increased by 1.5 microm/min every 30 min) or a high dose protocol (4.5 microm/min initially, increased by 4.5 microm/min every 30 min).


RESULTS
High dose of oxytocin was associated with a significant shortening of labor 4 (1.10-10) vs. 6 (1-10) h, p<0.0001 without a significant difference in cesarean delivery rate, neonatal and maternal outcome.


CONCLUSIONS
The use of high dose oxytocin is associated with significantly shorter labor without any adverse fetal and maternal effects.
OB/GYN Department, Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. af_jamal@yahoo.com
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Jamal
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Kalantari
D000328:Adult; D002585:Cesarean Section / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007747:Labor Stage, First / Q000187:drug effects*; D010120:Oxytocics / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D010121:Oxytocin / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D011247:Pregnancy; D013997:Time Factors
D010120:Oxytocics; D010121:Oxytocin