L-arginine infusion reduces preterm uterine contractions

In order to investigate the role of nitric oxide in preterm labor, 10 women presenting with preterm onset of uterine contractions were infused with L-Arginine. In comparison to saline infusion, L-Arginine significantly reduced the number of contractions, together with an increase of both serum growth hormone and nitrates levels. These findings demonstrate that the enhancement of endogenous nitric oxide production through its physiological donor, L-Arginine, is able to transiently reduce preterm uterine spontaneous contractility.