Multiple vs. single betamethasone therapy - Neonatal and maternal effects

OBJECTIVE: To identify potential neonatal benefits and possible neonatal an d maternal complications associated with repeated use of antenatal corticos teroids. STUDY DESIGN: A retrospective chart review was done on all gravidas <34 wee ks who were hospitalized and received antenatal betamethasone at our instit ution between January 1, 1992 and April 30, 1996. Regression analysis was p erformed to investigate the relationship between single vs, multiple course s of betamethasone and multiple variables. RESULTS: After controlling for significant covariates, multiple courses of betamethasone were associated with a decrease in oxygen use (P < .01). A no nsignificant decline in respiratory distress syndrome and assisted ventilat ion was noted. No effect on birth weight or maternal or neonatal infection was seen. CONCLUSION: Repeated use of betamethasone is associated with a significant decrease in oxygen use in the preterm neonate. No significant maternal or n eonatal complications were found. A prospective, randomized trial is necess ary.