Effects of terbutaline on the pregnant baboon and fetus

The effects of terbutaline on the mother and fetus were evaluated in 8 near-term pregnant baboons. Significant suppression of postoperative spontaneous and oxytocin-augmented uterine activity was achieved with infusion rates of 0.36 and 0.56 microgram/kg/min, respectively. Maternal and fetal blood pressure and acid-base states as well as fetal heart rate were unaffected by the administration of terbutaline to the mother, but a mild maternal tachycardia was observed. Both maternal and fetal blood glucose increased during terbutaline infusion. Direct administration of terbutaline to the fetus did not alter the fetal cardiovascular or acid-base state. It is concluded that in the baboon, terbutaline is an effective tocolytic agent with minimal untoward effects on either mother or fetus.