European Journal of Pediatrics

, Volume 154, Issue 3, pp S7–S9 | Cite as

Antenatal lung maturation —should we all be using thyrotropin-releasing hormone?

  • N. M. Fisk
  • M. J. Peek
Article
  • 15 Downloads

Abstract

Thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) appears to be a promising antenatal therapy to help reduce neonatal lung disease. Clinical trials, however, show differing results. At present the optimum dosage, frequency and method of administration have not been established. TRH has been shown significantly to elevate blood pressure in patients with preeclampsia suggesting it should not be used in this group. Moreover concerns over its use in growth retarded fetuses and its long-term neonatal effects have not been addressed. Further trials are needed before routine clinical use can be recommended.

Key words

Thyrotropin-releasing hormone Respiratory distress syndrome 

Abbreviations

RDS

respiratory distress syndrome

TRH

thyrotropin-releasing hormone

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Copyright information

© Springer-Verlag 1995

Authors and Affiliations

  • N. M. Fisk
    • 1
  • M. J. Peek
    • 1
  1. 1.Institute of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Royal Postgraduate Medical SchoolQueen Charlotte's and Chelsea HospitalLondonUK

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