RITODRINE HYDROCHLORIDE

It has a beta- 2 sympathomimetic action. It is a uteine relaxant which is active after oral, intramuscular and intravenous administration. It inhibits uterine contractions in frequency and intensity. The effective elimination half-life is approximately 2 hours.

Indications

Preterm labour, acute foetal distress, prevention of preterm labour after operations.

Dosage

Initial Treatment, I V Infusion: 0.05 mg / minute. Increase by 0.05 mg / minute every 10-15 minutes until desired result obtained. I M Injection: 10 mg every 4-6 hours. Maitenance Treatment: 10 mg-20 mg every 2-6 hours with a maximum daily dose of 120 mg.

Contra-Indications

Hypersensitivity.

Special Precautions

Severe acidemia, diabetics. Paediatrics: Not prescribed. Pregnancy: Should not be used. Elderly: Not prescribed.

Side Effects

Tachycardia, tremor, nausea, vomiting, headache or erythema, nervousness, restlessness, jitteriness,emotional upset, anxiety , malaise.

Drug Interactions

Corticosteroids, sypatomimetic amines, Beta-adrenergic blocking drugs, anaesthetics.