Side Effects of Tocolytics

Tocolytics are a class of medications used to delay delivery in premature labor. They work by preventing uterine contractions for 48 so that medications can be given to the mother to promote fetal lung maturity. Some tocolytics are terbutaline sulfate, ritodrine, nifedipine, magnesium sulfate and indomethacin.

• Tocolytics have some side effects.

Cardiovascular Side Effects

• Some tocolytics act on the heart as well as the uterine muscles. The side effects this causes are fast heart beats in the mother and fetus, feeling faint, heart failure, chest pain and irregular heart beats.

Gastrointestinal System Side Effects

• Tocolytics can cause constipation, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite and dry mouth.

Central Nervous System Side Effects

• Administration of a tocolytic may cause difficulty breathing, headaches, tremors, nervousness, jitteriness, drowsiness, confusion, tiredness and dizziness.

Respiratory System Side Effects

• Coughing, breathing fast, shortness of breath and accumulation of fluids in the lungs are side effects of tocolytics on the respiratory system.

Other Side Effects

• Tocolytics affect other systems in the body with the following side effects: blurred vision, loss of balance, ringing in the ears, bleeding nose, pain when urinating, urinating frequently, flushing, increased sweating, itchy skin, rash, sensitivity to the sun, muscle cramps and joint stiffness.