THE EFFECT OF SALBUTAMOL AND TERBUTALINE IN THE MANAGEMENT OF PREMATURE LABOUR

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Abstract
A comparative study concerning the effect of salbutamol and terbutaline in the management of premature labor with intact membranes was performed in 34 patients between 27-36 wk of gestation. Salbutamol arrested labor activity in 33 of 34 patients and terbutaline in 32 of 34 patients. Delivery was postponed for more than 1 wk in 74% of the patients receiving salbutamol and in 80% of the patients receiving terbutaline. No significant difference in effect was found between the drugs used. The effect was equally good independent of the gestational age. Dilatation of cervix beyond 2 cm was associated with successful treatment (delay of delivery more than 1 wk) in 27% compared to 91% if the cervix was dilated 2 cm or less. In 12 patients with ruptured membranes a temporary arrest of labor activity (1-7 days) was obtained in 7 patients, and in 1 patient the delivery was delayed for 6 wk. In the dosage used an increase in maternal and fetal heart rate was observed, more frequently in the patients receiving salbutamol compared with those receiving terbutaline. No serious side-effects were observed, neither in the salbutamol nor the terbutaline group. Both drugs apparently are well tolerated and effective in the treatment of premature labor.

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