Terbutaline (intravenous bolus) for the treatment of acute intrapartum fetal distress.

Abstract

beta 2-Sympathomimetics have been used in acute intrapartum fetal distress to abolish uterine contractions and thus enable the fetal metabolism to recover before delivery. Because some serious complications were reported when a terbutaline intravenous bolus (0.25 mg) was used as a tocolytic, we assessed its safety and efficacy when used in patients not affected by cardiovascular disease, tachycardia greater than 100 beats/min, thyrotoxicosis, fluid overload, corticoids, atropine, or severe abruptio placentae. No maternal or fetal complications occurred in the 36 patients studied; a well-tolerated tachycardia developed in most patients. Fetal heart rate tracings and pH improved in 32 patients. Thirty-four neonates were delivered in good clinical and metabolic condition. We conclude that terbutaline intravenous bolus 0.25 mg is a safe and efficacious procedure when the proper indications and contraindications are followed.

• Authors: A Shekarloo, C Mendez-Bauer, V Cook, U Freese
• Journal: American journal of obstetrics and gynecology (Am J Obstet Gynecol) Vol. 160 Issue 3 Pg. 615-8 (Mar 1989) ISSN: 0002-9378 [Print] United States
• PMID: 2929681 (Publication Type: Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Terbutaline

Topics

• Acute Disease
• Delivery, Obstetric
• Female
• Fetal Blood (metabolism)
• Fetal Distress (drug therapy)
• Fetal Heart
• Heart Rate (drug effects)
• Humans
• Hydrogen-Ion Concentration
• Injections, Intravenous
• Pregnancy
• Pregnancy Outcome
• Scalp (blood supply)
• Terbutaline (therapeutic use)