D. Subtil, P. Tiberghien, P. Devos
Feb 1, 2003
Citations
2
Influential Citations
79
Citations
Quality indicators
Journal
American journal of obstetrics and gynecology
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to evaluate the role of different formulations and different administration kinetics of antenatal corticosteroid therapy on fetal heart rate. STUDY DESIGN One hundred five patients who were at high risk for preterm delivery were assigned randomly to receive two injections of betamethasone acetate + phosphate, four injections of betamethasone phosphate, or four injections of dexamethasone phosphate. Computerized fetal heart rate was recorded daily through day 4. RESULTS The three formulations did not differ in their effect on fetal heart rate, which varied significantly as a function of the time of injection. During treatment (day 0-day 1), fetal heart rate variability increased (+9%, P <.05), as did the number of fetal movements felt by the mother (+60% at day 0, P <.001). After treatment (day 2-day 3), variability fell significantly (-14%, P <.01), as did accelerations (-35% at day 2, P <.01). No modifications were still detectable on day 4. CONCLUSION Antenatal corticotherapy is responsible for two different phases of fetal heart rate modifications that do not vary according to the corticosteroid or the dosage regimen.