|
INTRAUTERINE GROWTH RESTRICTION |
Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2001;(4):CD000036.
Betamimetics for suspected impaired fetal growth.
G?mezoglu AM, Hofmeyr GJ.
Special Department of Research, Development and Research Training in Human
Reproduction, UNDP/UNFPA/WHO/World Bank, World Health Organisation, Geneva
27, Switzerland, CH-1211. gulmezoglum@who.ch
Background:
Betamimetic drugs may promote fetal growth by increasing the
availability of nutrients and by decreasing vascular resistance. They may
also induce adverse effects via their effects on carbohydrate metabolism.
Objectives:
The objective of this review was to assess the effects of
betamimetic therapy for suspected impaired fetal growth on fetal growth and
perinatal outcome.
Search Strategy:
We searched the Cochrane Pregnancy and
Childbirth Group trials register and the Cochrane Controlled Trials
Register. Date of the latest search: 31 May 2001.
Selection Criteria:
Randomised trials of betamimetic therapy compared with no betamimetic
therapy or placebo in women with suspected impaired fetal growth. DATA
COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Eligibility and trial quality was assessed.
Main Results:
Two studies of 118 women were included. No differences were found
between the betamimetic groups and the control groups for low birth weight
(relative risk 1.17, 95% confidence interval 0.75 to 1.83), other
anthropometric measures or neonatal morbidity and mortality. REVIEWER'S
Conclusions:
Larger, well-designed studies are needed to evaluate the
effects of betamimetics on fetal growth. Since there is potential for
adverse effects due to the pharmacological characteristics of this group of
drugs, data related to any potential harms should be collected in addition
to beneficial effects.
| 
