Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) versus magnesium sulfate to arrest preterm

Considering the high incidence of preterm labor and its known complications, and that human myometrium contains receptors for human chronic gonadotropin (hCG) and that hCG can inhibit myometrial contractions on vitro, made me study treating effects of hCG on preterm labor. This clinical trial study was carried out to compare the effect of hCG, and magnesium sulfate (mgso4) on prevention of preterm labor. The study group included 101 women at weeks 22-35 of the gestation with intact membranes and cervical dilatation less than 4cm in preterm labor in referrals of obstetric – clinics in Khorramabad city during the years 2001-2003. The case and control groups were treated with hCG protocol of the dosage consisted of one single dose of hCG 5000 1v and 10000 units of hCG in 5oo dextrose as a drip of 20 drops per minute. Treatment continued until preterm labor arrested and then complications of mother and fetus were recorded. On condition of a successful cease of labor, the patients were discharged and followed uptill deliven time. Both groups were similar to each other regarding maternal age, gravity, and gestational age. Mean delay of labor was 22/68 days after administration of hCG and 24/27 days for (mgso4) that was not significant. The number of newborns that admitted in NICU were 9 (18%) for hCG and were 9(17/8%) for magso4. Mean weight at labor was 2334gr and 2287gr for hCG and mgso4. The complaint rate was 100% and 0% for magnesium sulfate and hCG groups respectively (P<0/0001). since both drugs are alike regarding their effect on birth time, weight and delay of labor and furthermore, hCG exhibits potent tocolysis without fetal side effects. So it is recommended hCG to be used instead of mgso4 to prevent preterm labor.