[Clinical observations on the prevention and treatment of premature labor with nifedipine].

Abstract

Objective: To study the effect of a calcium channel antagonist--Nifedipine(NIF) on the prevention and treatment of premature labor, the suppression of uterine contraction, the prolongation of pregnancy, and to observe the side effects of NIF.

Methods: Eighty-four patients with threatened premature labor were randomly divided into three groups according to the dosage of NIF. Group A received NIF according to a 10 mg dosing schedule; Group B received NIF according to a 20 mg dosing schedule; Group C(not treated with NiF) served as control. The time of delivery delayed, the relationship of therapeutic effect with cervical dilatation and gestational age, and the results of delivery were observed and analyzed.

Results: In this study, INF effectively suppressed uterine contraction and delayed the time of delivery. The suppressant intensity was associated with the dosage. The therapeutic effects was apparently more noticeable when the treatment was initiated before the active opening of cervical os. No side effect of NIF was observed in Groups A and B.

Conclusion: Nifedipine is highly effective as a tocolytic agent for the management of premature delivery. It is of clinical usefulness, and the results of the above observations merit further study.