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Neonatal hypoglycemia after beta-sympathomimetic tocolytic therapy
The Journal of Pediatrics
|March 1, 1979
Summary
Neonatal hypoglycemia can occur with beta-sympathomimetic tocolytic therapy. Babies delivered shortly after maternal treatment showed sustained low blood sugar, unlike those delivered later.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal Medicine
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Tocolytic therapy using beta-sympathomimetics is common in preterm labor.
- The impact of this therapy on neonatal glucose metabolism requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the effect of maternal oral beta-sympathomimetic tocolytic therapy on neonatal serum glucose concentrations in the early hours post-delivery.
Main Methods:
- Studied 12 neonates exposed to maternal tocolytic therapy.
- Monitored neonatal serum glucose and insulin levels.
- Correlated timing of delivery relative to tocolytic therapy cessation with glucose concentrations.
Main Results:
- Eight of 12 neonates experienced hypoglycemia; five had sustained hypoglycemia.
- Neonates with sustained hypoglycemia had higher cord serum insulin and faster glucose disappearance rates.
- Sustained hypoglycemia was prevalent in infants delivered within 2 days of therapy cessation (5/6), but absent in those delivered ≥5 days after (0/6).
Conclusions:
- Maternal beta-sympathomimetic tocolytic therapy can significantly affect neonatal glucose homeostasis.
- The timing of delivery relative to the cessation of maternal tocolytic treatment is a critical factor in neonatal hypoglycemia risk.