Effect of Drotaverine Hydrochloride on Total Duration of Labor in Primigravida and Multigravida

Active management of labor is the demand of modern obstetrics. Attempts to accelerate labor and there by shorten its duration without jeopardizing maternal and fetal outcome are welcome by both patient and obstetrician. In the current study, attempt has been made to find out the various aspects of the use of Drotaverine to fasten delivery and its effect on labor process in primigravida and multigravida. This study was done on 100 pregnant women at term in spontaneous labor. Both primigravida and multigravida were administered injection Drotaverine HCL 40 mg IM at 3- 4cm in early labor, repeated if required maximum up to 3 injections. The duration of 1st stage of labor was calculated. Mode of delivery (spontaneous vaginal, forceps or ventouse) was noted. LSCS was done for appropriate indications but were excluded from study. Also Injection- delivery interval was noted. Number of injections required was also noted. The use of injection Drotaverine HCL in early labor causes significant shortening of duration of dilatation phase of labor, especially primigravida. It probably reduces incidence of cervical tears associated with delivery. Its use in shortening the labor in appropriate doses was found safe for mother and fetus/ neonate.