International journal of gynaecology and obstetrics : the official organ of the International Federation of Gynaecology and Obstetrics
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Int J Gynaecol Obstet · Jul 1992
Interval to delivery in high-risk patients: do tocolytic agents really work?
Some question whether tocolytic drugs reduce uterine activity and prolong gestation. The interval from discontinuance of tocolytics until spontaneous labor and delivery in patients (n = 69) with documented preterm labor (PTL) versus subjects receiving prophylactic tocolytic therapy (n = 41) was studied. ⋯ Also, 28 of the 69 (41%) patients in the PTL group delivered within 24 h of discontinuation of tocolysis compared to 4 (10%) in the C group (P less than 0.0004). We conclude that tocolytic therapy for documented preterm labor suppresses uterine activity and when these agents are discontinued, contractions return and labor ensues.