Effect of a Potent Non-narcotic Analgesic Agent (Pentazocine) on Uterine Contractility and Fetal Heart Rate

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Abstract
The methods of Alvarez and Caldehyro-Barcia for continuous study of intra-amniotic pressures were used to study the effects of pentazocine on uterine contractions on 25 patients in labor, at term. The continuous recording of fetal heart rate using the electrocardiogra-phic and cardiotachometric methods of Pantle determined the effects of this drug on fetal heart rate. In 24 of 25 cases there was an increase in over-all uterine activity. Only 2 cases of abnormal uterine contractility were observed, cases of concomitant tachysystole and hypertonus. No significant changes in fetal heart rate were demonstrated. Pentazocine was a generally effective analgesic agent with a relatively rapid onset and short duration. No serious side effects were demonstrated. In no patients did pentazocine retard labor and in 7 patients the progress of labor seemed to be significantly accelerated. Pentazocine is an effective analgesic agent that does not retard uterine contractility nor the progress of labor.