Effects of terbutaline on the pressure volume relationship in fetal rabbit lung
Bergman, B.; Hedner, T.; Lundborg, P.
Acta Obstetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavica 57(4): 323-326
1978
ISSN/ISBN: 0001-6349 PMID: 211788 Document Number: 129237
The pressure-volume relationship in preterm rabbit lung was studied at 28 days of gestation. Injection of 0.1 mg terbutaline, a selective .beta.2-receptor stimulating drug, significantly increased the volume of air at equivalent low transpulmonary pressures compared to a saline treated group and an untreated group. An increased pulmonary distensibility of the fetal rabbit lung after terbutaline administration was indicated. The mechanism of action is discussed and surfactant mediated effects are suggested. [Administration of this drug to the mother during pregnancy may help reduce the risk of hyaline membrane disease in preterm infants.].