[Inhibition of uterine contraction using theophylline--experimental and clinical studies]

The tocolytic efficiency of theophylline was investigated in 24 uterine strips and in 31 patients with premature contractions. Frequency, duration, amplitude, area and activity of the strips spontaneous contractions were decreased highly significantly (p less than 0.01) after administration of theophylline. In patients with premature contractions complete success (prolongation until 37. week of pregnancy and longer) was achieved in 12/19 of the patients, incomplete success (prolongation for more than 6 days until prophylaxis with steroids was efficient) in 4/19 patients. In 3/19 patients no success was observed. Also bolus-administration before an acute caesarean demonstrated a satisfying tocolytic effect. No serious side-effects, especially of cardiopulmonal sort, were remarked, except of some nausea.