Clinical and cost-effectiveness of continuous subcutaneous terbutaline versus oral tocolytics for treatment of recurrent preterm labor in twin gestations

Abstract

Objective: To compare the clinical and cost-effectiveness of treating recurrent preterm labor with continuous subcutaneous terbutaline versus oral tocolytics in twin gestations.

Study design: In a retrospective, matched-cohort design, twin pregnancies treated as outpatients with continuous subcutaneous terbutaline were identified from a perinatal database, then matched 1:1 by gestational age at recurrent preterm labor to those receiving oral tocolytics. There were 353 patients per treatment group. A cost model was used to compare antepartum hospital, nursery, and outpatient charges.

Results: Infants of the subcutaneous terbutaline group had greater gestational age at delivery, higher birth weights, and less frequent neonatal intensive care unit admission. Charges for antepartum hospitalization and nursery were significantly less in the subcutaneous terbutaline group, while charges for outpatient services were less for the oral group. Mean total estimated charges were US$17,109 less for those receiving subcutaneous terbutaline.

Conclusion: Improved clinical outcomes and decreased nursery utilization suggest cost-effectiveness of outpatient continuous subcutaneous terbutaline versus oral tocolytics for the treatment of recurrent preterm labor.