Razi Journal of Medical Sciences

  Background : Preterm labor is defined by bearing before 37 weeks of gestation. Premature newborn is associated with a high morbidity. Past studies demonstrated TNG has a positive effect on preterm labor, but no studies have been done comparing TNG and nifedipin in this field. The objective of the present study was to compare the effect and complications of Patch of TNG and nifedipin (Ca channel blocker) for treatment of preterm labor.

  Methods: A randomized clinical trial study was performed on 120 pregnant women with preterm labor pregnancy in Shahid Akbar Abadi Hospital in Tehran. Sixty women (TNG group) were compared with 60 women (nifedipin group) for drugs’ safety and efficacy (delay of delivery for more than 48 hours). Contractions and blood pressure were controlled in both the groups.

  Results: In 41 (68.3%) patients of group 1, delay of delivery occurred for more than 48 hours, and in second group, it happened in 52(86.7%) patients. There was a statistically significant difference (p=0.016). In 37 (61.7%) patients of group 1, delay of delivery occurred for more than 72 hours, and in second group, it happened in 47(78.3%) patients. There was a statistically significant difference (p=0.046).

  Conclusion: TNG patch is an effective and suitable drug, associated with fewer complications in comparison with nifedipin in the treatment of preterm labor.