Comparison of nifedipine with salbutamol as tocolytic agents in preterm labour

ABSTRACT

This study was carried out to evaluate the tocolytic efficacy for prolongation of pregnancy with oral nifedipine in comparison to salbutamol, and to evaluate side effects of nifedipine. It was an interventional study and was performed for a period of one year in Sir Ganga Ram hospital, and in the department of obstetrics and gynaecology, Fatima Jinnah Medical College. Sixty women were enrolled in this study. A questionnaire was filled for each patient. Once randomised the women received oral nifedipine or intravenous salbutamol in recommended dosage for acute tocolysis. Measurements of maternal pulse, blood pressure and foetal heart rate were recorded for upto 24 hours and compared over the treatment course. Outcome measures were prolongation of pregnancy as a result of tocolysis and recorded in hours and days, along with maternal and foetal side effects. Delivery was deferred for 48 hours, 3 to 7 days and more than 7 days in 30%, 6.66% and 3.33% respectively in nifedipine group compared with 26.66%, 3.33% and 3.33% of women respectively in salbutamol group [no significant difference P > 0.05]. Major maternal and foetal side effects were significantly less common in nifedipine group [0%] than in salbutamol group [13.33%] P value = 0.05. Nifedipine is almost as effective as salbutamol in suppressing preterm labour. Its use is associated with less frequent side effects