Evaluation of ketanserin as a tocolytic agent in third trimester pregnant rats

Ketanserin, as a 5HT2 selective antagonist, was evaluated for its tocolytic effects in pregnant Charles River (CR) rats, at total doses of 1.5 and 3.5 mg/kg IU from day 22 to day 25 of pregnancy. After 18 hours of ethenyl estradiol induction, tocolytic evaluation was carried out by recording uterine activity. When compared to the control group, the administration of Ketanserin resulted in an apparent, nondose dependent suppression of uterine contractility.