The effect of berotec (Th 1165a) on spontaneous and induced uterine activity in the pregnant baboon.

Berotec (Th 1165a), a specific beta-adrenergic agent, has been found to be a more potent agent than metaproterenol in the inhibition of uterine activity in animals and human beings. The effect of berotec on spontaneous (postinduced) and induced uterine activity in the pregnant baboon near term was investigated. Berotec administered intravenously in a dose of 5 mug per minute consistently and significantly reduced spontaneous uterine activity as well as uterine activity by either oxytocin or prostaglandin F2-alpha. The frequency of contractions was consistently reduced whereas the effect on the amplitude of contractions was less marked. There was no reduction of the baseline muscle tonus. Berotec infusion produced a marked increase in the maternal heart rate, averaging 40 beats per minute. Berotec appears to be a potent inhibitor of spontaneous, oxytocin-induced, and prostaglandin-induced uterine activity in the pregnant baboon, but it has considerable cardiovascular side effects.

Duke Scholars

Author Kenneth Heaton Wilson Medicine, Infectious Diseases