Piracetam for fetal distress in labour.
BACKGROUND
Piracetam is thought to promote the metabolism of brain cells when they are hypoxic. It has been used to prevent adverse effects of fetal distress.


OBJECTIVE
The objective of this review was to assess the effects of piracetam for suspected fetal distress in labour on method of delivery and perinatal morbidity.


METHODS
We searched the Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth Group's Trials Register (15 February 2012).


METHODS
Randomised trials of piracetam compared with placebo or no treatment for suspected fetal distress in labour.


METHODS
Both review authors assessed eligibility and trial quality.


RESULTS
One study of 96 women was included. Piracetam compared with placebo was associated with a trend to reduced need for caesarean section (risk ratio 0.57, 95% confidence interval 0.32 to 1.03). There were no statistically significant differences between the piracetam and placebo group for neonatal morbidity (measured by neonatal respiratory distress) or Apgar score.


CONCLUSIONS
There is not enough evidence to evaluate the use of piracetam for fetal distress in labour.
Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, East London Hospital Complex, University of the Witwatersrand, University of FortHare, Eastern Cape Department of Health, East London, South Africa. justhof@gmail.com.
G Justus
GJ
Hofmeyr
Regina
R
Kulier
D001034:Apgar Score; D002585:Cesarean Section / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D036861:Delivery, Obstetric; D005260:Female; D005316:Fetal Distress / Q000188:drug therapy*; D006801:Humans; D007743:Labor, Obstetric; D018696:Neuroprotective Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D010889:Piracetam / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D011247:Pregnancy; D016032:Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
D018696:Neuroprotective Agents; D010889:Piracetam