A Comparison of Human Chorionic Gonadotropin with Magnesium Sulphate in Inhibition of Preterm Labor

This study was carried out to compare the capability of HCG versus magnesium sulfate (MgSO4) to inhibit preterm delivery in human cases. The study group included 101 women at 22-35 weeks of gestation with intact membranes and cervical dilatation less than 4cm in preterm labor in referrals of Obstetric-Clinic in the city of Khoram Abad during the year 2001-2003. The cases and control groups were treated with HCG protocol of the dosage consisting of one single dose of HCG 5000 1 V and 10000 units of HCG in 500 dextrose as a drip of 20 drops per minute and magnesium sulfute (Rotin dose), respectively and treated until preterm labor (PTL) arrested. Complications were recorded. On condition of successful cease of labor, the patients were discharged and followed up to the time of delivery. Both group were similar to each other regarding maternal age, parity and gestational age. Delivery was delayed for 48 h in 45(90.3%) and 44(88%) of the patients in the HCG and magnesium sulfate groups. The number of newborns that were admitted to NICU was 9 (18%) for HCG and MgSO4. In addition, mean weight at labor was 2334 and 2287 g for HCG and MgSO4. The complaint rate was 100 and 0% for magnesium sulfate and HCG group, respectively (p<0.0001). Since both drugs are alike regarding their effects on birth time weight and delay of labor and in addition HCG exhibits without fetal side effects. So it is recommended to be used in prevention of preterm labor replacement of MgSO4.