14. Comparison of Efficacy and Safety of Nifedipine Versus Beta-Sympathomimetics for Suppression of Preterm Labour
Drakhshan Nauman1, Nadia Saif2, Shereen Sukhan3, Faiza Saghir3, Fareeha Farooq3 and Maryam Rashid4
ABSTRACT
Objective: To compare the effectiveness and safety of Nifedipine with beta-sympathomimetics for suppression of preterm labour.
Study Design: Quasi-Experimental study.
Place and Duration of Study: This study was conducted at the Obstetrics and Gynaecology Department of Pakistan Ordinance Factories (POFs) Hospital, Wah Cantt from July, 2012 to June, 2013.
Materials and Methods: A total of 120 admitted pregnant women in preterm labour were studied. Patients were divided into two groups of 60 each. The patients presenting with regular painful uterine contractions at frequent intervals and with appreciable cervical change, at gestation > 24weeks or < 37 weeks were admitted for tocolysis. Two groups were formed by using random numbers table. Group A was given Nifedipine and Group B was given Beta-sympathomimetic drug i.e. Terbutaline. All relevant information was written on proforma.
Results: During study period, 120 patients were enrolled. 60 patients were randomized to Nifedipine and 60 to Beta sympathomimetics treatment. The age distribution, gravidity and gestational age were same in both groups. Tocolysis was successful in 93 % of patients in Nifedipine group and 67 % of patients in Beta sympathomimetics group. It failed in 7% and 33% in Nifedipine and Beta sympathomimetics groups respectively. The mean gestational age achieved at delivery was 32.67 ± 2.248 and 32.43 ± 2.473 in Nifedipine group and Beta sympathomimetics group respectively. Nifedipine caused effective tocolysis in 83% patients within 24 hours whereas Beta sympathomimetics caused it in only 56% patients within 24 hours. Hypotension was the commonest side effect seen in 17% of patients in Nifedipine group and 43% in Beta sympathomimetics group. Tachycardia was observed in 70% of the patients and vomiting was observed in 12% of patients in Beta sympathomimetics group.
Conclusion: Nifedipine is more efficacious and safe as compared to Beta sympathomimetics in suppression of preterm labour with lesser side effects.
Key Words: Preterm labour. Prematurity. Cervical incompetence. Tocolysis.
Citation of article: Nauman D, Saif N, Sukhan S, Saghir F, Farooq F, Rashid M. Comparison of Efficacy and Safety of Nifedipine Versus Beta-Sympathomimetics for Suppression of Preterm Labour. Med Forum 2020;31(5):57-61.