[Antispasmodic agents (author's transl)]

The authors summarize current knowledge of the anatomical and physiological basis of uterine contractions and their inhibition, and review the different antispasmodics used at the present time in France. For each product they describe the pharmacological effects, the mode of administration, maternal and fetal tolerance, indications, contra-indications and efficacy. The choice of product and their association are then discussed. The authors emphasize the value of treatment by these products, and stress the need for careful prescribing, because of the severity of the accidents provoked by overdosage or when their contra-indications are not respected.