EFFECT OF MEPERIDINE ON UTERINE CONTRACTILITY

The effect of 100 mg. of intravenous meperidine on uterine contractility is studied in 45 patients by a continuous recording of amniotic fluid pressure. Seven patients were in spontaneous labor while 38 others were undergoing induction with various oxytocics. Though it is traditionally taught that meperidine decreases uterine contractility, only 3 patients showed decreases while 22 showed significant increases in activity. It is concluded that meperidine does not stop true labor and, instead, that it will be associated with an increase in uterine contractility in a large percentage of patients. © 1969.