Last update:

   30-Jan-2011
 

Arch Hellen Med, 28(1), January-February 2011, 11-19

REVIEW

Tocolysis for the treatment of preterm labor: A review of the literature

P. Antsaklis, A. Antsaklis
First Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, "Alexandra" Maternity Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece

Preterm birth is the main cause of perinatal mortality and morbidity. This is a review and evaluation of the data and evidence regarding the most widely used tocolytic agents. A systematic review was made of the literature on the acute management of preterm labour and the mechanisms of action of tocolytic drugs, the rationale for their use and their possible benefits and adverse effects. There is no clear evidence on which should be the first-line tocolytic agent. The use of tocolytic agents should be individualised and based on the maternal condition, potential sideeffects and gestational age.

Key words: Preterm labor, Tocolysis.


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