Ch 64: Drugs That Affect Uterine Function

Question 1

What are the 2 major groups of drugs which affect uterine function?

Answer 1

oxytocic drugs and tocolytic drugs

p. 777

Question 2

Contraction of the myometrium is regulated by multiple mediators, including…

Answer 2

…beta-adrenergic agonists, oxytocin, and prostaglandins.

p. 778

Question 3

Although terbutaline can be used to suppress preterm labor, it should not…

Answer 3

…be given to prevent preterm labor.

p. 778

Question 4

What is the most widely used agent for cervical ripening?

Answer 4

Dinoprostone [Prepidil, Cervidil]

p. 781

Question 5

Dinoprostone is a synthetic prostaglandin identical in structure to…

Answer 5

…endogenous prostaglandin E2 (PGE2).

p. 781

Question 6

Sensitivity of the uterus to oxytocin increases throughout pregnancy because…

Answer 6

…the number of oxytocin receptors on uterine smooth muscle increases throughout pregnancy.

(p. 782)

Question 7

What are the first and second leading causes of maternal mortality?

Answer 7

preeclampsia/eclampsia is first
postpartum hemorrhage is second

(p. 783)

Question 8

When misoprostol is given to treat postpartum hemorrhage, what is the dosage and route?

Answer 8

600 - 1000 mcg, per rectum

p. 783

Question 9

What are the principal side effects of misoprostol?

Answer 9

shivering and temperature elevation

p. 783

Question 10

Use of tranexamic acid is contraindicated in women who are also taking…

Answer 10

…oral contraceptives.

p. 785

Question 11

Which group of drugs can decrease menorrhagia by 20% - 46%?

Answer 11

NSAIDs

p. 785

Question 12

NSAIDs work by inhibiting COX. What does COX have to do with menstrual bleeding?

Answer 12

1) it indirectly promotes menstrual bleeding
2) is produced in excessive amounts in the menorrhagic endometrium

(p. 785)