Terbutaline: Can it prevent preterm labor?
Terbutaline: Can it prevent preterm labor?QuestionCan beta-mimetic therapy help prevent preterm labor? AnswerThere is no evidence that beta-mimetic drugs, such as terbutaline and ritodrine, prevent preterm birth. However, beta-mimetics are effective in temporarily reducing or stopping contractions in women who are having preterm labor. Beta-mimetics are best used to delay delivery long enough — usually 24 to 48 hours — to allow treatment with corticosteroids to speed fetal lung development. Beyond that use, it isn't clear that the benefits of beta-mimetics outweigh the potential risks for the mother. Adverse effects from beta-mimetic drugs may include fluid in the lungs (pulmonary edema) and abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias). RelatedLast Updated: 03/28/2006 © 1998-2013 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research (MFMER). All rights reserved. A single copy of these materials may be reprinted for noncommercial personal use only. "Mayo," "Mayo Clinic," "MayoClinic.com," "Mayo Clinic Health Information," "Reliable information for a healthier life" and the triple-shield Mayo logo are trademarks of Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research.
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