Composition
Inj: Per ml: Ritodrine HCI 10 mg; 5 ml amp. Tab: Ritodrine HCI 10 mg.
Indications & Dosage
Prevention of preterm labour, Prevention of preterm labour after operations: BY IV INF: Adult: Initial dose 0.05 mg/min, gradually increased according to the response by 0.05 mg/min every 10 min until the desired result is attained. The effective dosage usually lies between 0.15 and 0.35 mg/ min, continued for INF12 to 48 hr after the uterine contractions have ceased then gradually decreased to 0.10 mg/min. In case no facilities for INF are available, the treatment can be started with IM inj of 10 mg. If sufficient effect results, again 10 mg can be administered within one hr followed by 10-20 mg every 2-6 hr, continuing for 12- 48 hr; maintenance: 1tab (10 mg) may be given approx 30 or 60 min respectively before termination of IV therapy, followed by daily dose of 80-120 mg equally over the day. The treatment should be continued as long as it is considered desirable to prolong pregnancy. Acute foetal distress: Initial dose 0.05 mg/min intravenously to be rapidly increased until uterine activity is suppressed. The effective dose is between 0.15 and 0.35 mg/ min. While the INF is given preparations should be made for the assisted delivery of the foetus.
Administration
IV infusion: Initially 50 mcg/min, increased gradu-ally according to response by 50 mcg/min every 10 rains until contractions stop or maternal heart rate reaches 140 beats/min; continue for 12-48 hrs after contractions cease (usual rata 150- 350 mcg/min); max rate 350 mg/min. IMinjection: 10 mg in every 3-8 hrs continued for 12-48 hrs after contractions have ceased.
Contraindications
Antepartum haemorrhage, toxaemia of pregnancy, cord compression, threatened abortion, conditions where prolongation of pregnancy is hazardous.
Precautions
Maternal thyrotoxicosis or cardiovascular disease, diabetes. Monitor maternal and foetal heart rate.
Interactions
MAOIs, beta-blockers, beta-agonists.
Side Effects
Tachycardia, anxiety, rise in blood sugar level