PULMONARY-EDEMA FOLLOWING RITODRINE-SALINE INFUSION IN PREMATURE LABOR

  • 1 January 1981
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 58  (3) , 304-308
Abstract
Patients (23) with premature uterine contractions occurring between the 27th-35th wk of pregnancy were treated in a prospective and randomized study with i.v. ritodrine in a 0.1 wt/vol% solution of isotonic saline (N [no.] = 12) or isotonic glucose (N = 11). Effects of these agents on water-salt metabolism were recorded. In both groups there was a statistically significant fall in Hb, hematocrit and serum albumin (P < 0.001). This fall correlated significantly with the dose of ritodrine (P < 0.001). Serum renin and aldosterone levels a statistically significant increase (P < 0.0005). Of 12 patients, 7 in the saline group but none in the glucose group, developed pulmonary congestion requiring treatment. The combination of ritodrine and saline should be used cautiously and the accurate monitoring of the fluid balance during ritodrine treatment was recommended.

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