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. 2000;1996(2):CD000049.
doi: 10.1002/14651858.CD000049.

Calcium channel blockers for potential impaired fetal growth

A M Gülmezoglu  1 , G J Hofmeyr
Affiliations

Calcium channel blockers for potential impaired fetal growth

A M Gülmezoglu et al. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2000.

Abstract

Background: Calcium channel blockers may increase the blood flow to the fetus or may improve fetal-placental cellular energy generation. This could enhance fetal growth.

Objectives: The objectives of this review were to assess the effects of calcium channel blockers on fetal growth and neonatal morbidity and mortality in pregnancies where impaired fetal growth is suspected.

Search strategy: We searched the Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth Group trials register and the Cochrane Controlled Trials Register. Date of the last search: December 1999.

Selection criteria: Acceptably controlled trials of calcium channel blockers in women with potential impaired fetal growth.

Data collection and analysis: Eligibility and trial quality were assessed.

Main results: One study of 100 women (all smokers) was included. Mean birth weight was significantly higher in women receiving flunarizine compared to the control group. No other significant differences were found.

Reviewer's conclusions: There is not enough evidence to evaluate the use of calcium channel blockers for impaired fetal growth. The apparent beneficial effect of calcium channel blockers on birthweight warrants further investigation.

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Conflict of interest statement

None known.

Figures

1.1
1.1. Analysis
Comparison 1 Flunarizine versus no treatment, Outcome 1 Preterm birth (< 38 weeks).
1.2
1.2. Analysis
Comparison 1 Flunarizine versus no treatment, Outcome 2 Perinatal mortality.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

References

References to studies included in this review

Janssens 1985 {published and unpublished data}
    1. Janssens D. Prevention of low birth weight by flunarizine given to smoking mothers. Archives of Gynecology 1985;237(Suppl 1):397.

References to studies excluded from this review

Rizzo 1987 {published data only}
    1. Rizzo G, Arduini D, Mancuso S, Romanini C. Effects of nifedipine on umbilical artery velocity waveforms in healthy human fetuses. Gynecologic and Obstetric Investigation 1987;24:151‐4. - PubMed

Additional references

Belfort 1994
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Bernstein 2000
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Clarke 2000
    1. Clarke M, Oxman AD, editors. Cochrane Reviewers' Handbook 4.1 [updated June 2000]. In: Review Manager (RevMan) [Computer program]. Version 4.1. Oxford, England: The Cochrane Collaboration, 2000.
Lin 1998
    1. Lin C, Santolaya‐Forgas J. Current concepts of fetal growth restriction: Part 1. Causes, classification, and pathophysiology. Obstetrics & Gynecology 1998;92(6):1044‐55. - PubMed
Resnik 2002
    1. Resnik, R. Intrauterine growth restriction. Obstetrics & Gynecology 2002;99(3):490‐6. - PubMed

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