Experience of the use of nimesulide, a cyclo-oxygenase-2 selective prostaglandin synthesis inhibitor, in the prevention of preterm labour in 44 high-risk cases
Sawdy, R.J.; Groom, K.M.; Bennett, P.R.
Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology the Journal of the Institute of Obstetrics and Gynaecology 24(3): 226-229
2004
ISSN/ISBN: 0144-3615 PMID: 15203612 DOI: 10.1080/01443610410001660661
Accession: 049018791
We report pregnancy outcome and fetal side effects in women at high risk of second trimester loss and early preterm delivery treated with nimesulide. This was a prospective observational study of 44 women treated with nimesulide from 17 to 32 weeks. All women underwent weekly ultrasound scans for AFI, Doppler studies of the ductus arteriosus and transvaginal assessment of cervical length. Outcome data were collected. Oligohydramnios occurred in 54% of cases; this returned to normal in all cases on discontinuation of treatment. There were no cases of constriction of the ductus arteriosus. Thirty-nine women took home a live baby. The mean gestation at delivery was 33 weeks and 1 day and the mean birth weight was 2105 g. Nimesulide appeared to have a significant benefit in women at high risk of preterm delivery with no long-term harmful effects on the fetus if monitored closely with an intensive ultrasound scanning regimen. Randomised placebo controlled trials are required to assess fully the benefit of COX-2 selective and specific prostaglandin synthesis inhibitors.