tocolytic
Medication used to suppress uterine contractions and delay preterm labor to allow for maternal transport or fetal maturation.
Full Definition
A class of medications administered to pregnant women to inhibit uterine contractions and prolong pregnancy when preterm labor is diagnosed. Common tocolytic agents include nifedipine, indomethacin, and magnesium sulfate, each working through different mechanisms to relax uterine smooth muscle. The goal of tocolytic therapy is to gain time for administration of antenatal corticosteroids to accelerate fetal lung maturity, or to allow for maternal transfer to a facility with appropriate neonatal care capabilities. Tocolytics are typically used between 24-34 weeks' gestation when the benefits of delaying delivery outweigh the risks. Treatment success varies, and these medications may only delay delivery by 24-48 hours.
Usage
Usage note: Can be used as both adjective and noun; ensure context clarifies meaning.
In Context
- "Tocolytic therapy with nifedipine successfully delayed delivery for 48 hours." — Obstetric progress note
- "The effectiveness of tocolytic treatment decreases with advancing gestational age." — Clinical guideline