EFFECT OF DRUGS ON FETAL HEART-RATE VARIABILITY

Abstract

Baseline FHR [fetal heart rate] variability was quantitated into mathematical indices of differential index (short-term variability) and interval index (long-term variability) [in humans]. Normal values were determined. The effect that drugs used during labor have on FHR baseline variability was evaluated. A clinically meaningful change in variability was observed following low-dose administration of Demerol morphine, Nisentil, Phenergan and Vistaril. A statistically significant increase in variability was observed following administration of magnesium sulfate.