Tocolytic

A tocolytic (from " tokos " (gr ) = " birth ", " woe " / / " lyein " (gr ) = " resolve " ) is an agent for the suppression of uterine contractions ( tocolysis ). Tocolytics are used to prevent premature births or certain birth complications such as a prolapsed cord or a transverse position of the child in the womb (uterus) to suppress the further expulsion by the labor inhibition.

Agents

• Fenoterol is a β2 -sympathomimetic that targets the β - receptors in the uterus. The side effects that are caused by β - receptors in the heart, include tachycardia ( rapid heart rate ), low blood pressure and increase in cardiac output. Perceived as unpleasant the accompanying restlessness, muscle tremors, and shortness of breath may be.

• Nifedipine is a calcium antagonist. In Germany no general approval in gynecology has been sought from the manufacturers. This is, however, not necessarily from a lack of effectiveness, but rather to the costs which would be associated with an authorization procedure for nifedipine as a tocolytic. Nifedipine has been used for years in internal medicine, such as high blood pressure ( hypertension).

• Atosiban ( Tractocile ® ) is an oxytocin antagonist.

• Also, inhibitors of prostaglandin synthesis such as indomethacin tocolytic effect.

• Preparations of Kalanchoe pinnatum ( Bryophyllum ) have been used for decades in anthroposophic medicine as a tocolytic.