Success rate in preterm uterine contraction inhibition with tocolytic agents in a tertiary care center

Prevention of Preterm Labor by Isosorbide Dinitrate and Nitroglycerin Patch

BACKGROUND

Preterm labor is one of the most important causes of hospitalization during pregnancy and can lead to serious complications in neonates.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to compare the effect of transdermal nitroglycerin (TNG) patches and sublingual tablets of Isosorbide dinitrate (ISD) for the prevention of preterm delivery.

METHODS

A total of 110 healthy pregnant women aged 18-35 years with a healthy and alive fetus and gestational age between 24-34 weeks who had at least 8 regular uterine contractions per hour were included in this single-blinded clinical trial. After exclusion, the women were randomly divided into TNG (n = 50) and ISD (n = 49) groups. After the first dose of medication (TNG or ISD), patients who developed complications such as hypotension, headache, or both, were also excluded from the study.

RESULTS

A total of 58 patients completed the treatment course (29 patients in each group). A significant difference in delayed preterm labor and recovery time was reported between the TNG and ISD groups.

CONCLUSION

Complications and the number of contractions were not statistically different in the two groups. We concluded that the TNG patch is more effective than ISD in delaying labor. Both drugs are likely to have a similar incidence of side effects.

Preterm Labor and Birth: A Clinical Review

When caring for women experiencing preterm labor and birth, nurses play a significant role as bedside experts, advocates, patient educators, and key members of the maternity care team. Enhanced expertise on clinical and professional knowledge of preterm labor and birth is crucial in prevention and treatment. As preterm birth rates continue to rise, perinatal nurses as well-informed clinical experts have the opportunity to offer innovative education, holistic assessments, and communication through shared decision-making models. Educating pregnant women about early recognition of preterm labor warning signs and symptoms allows for timely diagnosis, interventions, and treatment. Informed and collaborative nursing practice improves quality of clinical care based on individualized interactions. A clinical review of preterm labor and preterm birth is presented for perinatal nurses.