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Tocolytic preference for treatment of preterm labor
Chad K Klauser1, Christian M Briery, Everett F Magann
1Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson 39216, USA.
Journal of the Mississippi State Medical Association
|October 20, 2007
Summary
Preterm labor treatment lacks an FDA-approved drug, leading to varied physician practices. This study highlights the need for consistent, approved tocolytic therapies for pregnant women experiencing preterm labor.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Maternal-Fetal Medicine
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Preterm labor is a major pregnancy complication.
- Current tocolytic treatments lack FDA approval and standardized regimens.
- Physician practices for preterm labor management vary significantly.
Purpose of the Study:
- To survey the current treatment patterns for preterm labor among Maternal-Fetal Medicine specialists.
- To identify commonly used tocolytic drugs and corticosteroids in preterm labor management.
- To highlight the need for an FDA-approved tocolytic agent.
Main Methods:
- A survey of twenty Maternal-Fetal Medicine specialists.
- Analysis of management patterns for over 6,000 annual cases of preterm labor with intact membranes.
- Data collection on tocolytic drug choices, dosages, and combinations.
Main Results:
- Over 90% of eligible patients received corticosteroids.
- Magnesium sulfate was the preferred first-line tocolytic, followed by antiprostaglandin drugs.
- Intravenous terbutaline and calcium channel antagonists were used less frequently.
- Diverse dosage patterns and drug combinations were employed, tailored to individual patients.
- All tocolytic and corticosteroid treatments were used off-label.
Conclusions:
- Women with preterm labor and intact membranes are typically treated with tocolytics and corticosteroids.
- Current treatment regimens are highly variable and utilize off-label medications.
- There is a clear need for an FDA-approved tocolytic drug for consistent preterm labor management.
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