Maternal cardiovascular effects of drugs that alter uterine activity

All drugs that modify uterine activity have cardiovascular effects. These changes, which include alterations in blood pressure, heart rate, cardiac output, the peripheral vascular resistance, can have significant impact on both mother and fetus. The intensity of these effects is dependent on the concentration of the agent, its infusion rate, and the additive effects of other drugs administered concomitantly. A knowledge of these potentially adverse cardiovascular properties of medications that alter uterine activity is required for competent management of preterm and term labor and delivery.