Nifedipine versus Ritodrine for suppression of preterm labor and analysis of side effects

Objectives: To compare the tocolytic efficacy of Nifedipine and Ritodrine, their adverse effects and neonatal outcome. Design Prospective randomized trial. Methods: One hundred twenty women with clinical features of preterm labor fulfilling designated inclusion and exclusion criteria were enrolled in the study. They were allocated to either nifedipine group or Ritodrine group by using simple randomization technique. Tocolytic efficacy, maternal side effects and neonatal outcomes were evaluated. Tools of statistical analysis used were Epi Info software and Chi square test. Results: Tocolysis was successful i.e., prolongation of pregnancy for 48 h in 54 (90%) women in Nifedipine group as compared to 41 (68.3%) women in Ritodrine group (P value = 0.003 and χ 2 = 8.54). The prolongation of pregnancy up to 37 weeks was observed in 28 women (46.6%) in Nifedipine group compared to 16 women (26.6%) in Ritodrine group (P value = 0.033). 18 women (30%) in Nifedipine group had side effects compared to 48 women (80%) in Ritodrine group (P value < 0.001). Neonatal outcome was similar in both the groups. Conclusion: Oral Nifedipine is cheaper and effective alternative which has fewer and less serious side effects as compared to I.V. Ritodrine for suppression of the preterm labor. © Federation of Obstetric & Gynecological Societies of India 2011.