Drotaverine hydrochloride and valethamate bromide action in management of labor

Background: Labor duration impacts maternal and perinatal morbidity. Antispasmodics like drotaverine hydrochloride and valethamate bromide are used to shorten labor by facilitating cervical dilation. This study compares the efficacy of these drugs in labor management. Methods: A prospective study was conducted with 200 primigravida women in the active phase of labor. Participants were randomly divided into two groups: Group I received drotaverine hydrochloride (80 mg), and Group II received valethamate bromide (8 mg). Maternal and fetal outcomes, labor progression, and adverse effects were monitored. Results: The mean cervical dilation rate for drotaverine was significantly higher (1.5570 cm/hr) compared to valethamate (1.0840 cm/hr). The first stage of labor was shorter in the drotaverine group (mean 187.200 min) than in the valethamate group (mean 279.850 min). No significant differences were observed in the second and third stages. Vaginal delivery rates were higher with drotaverine (81%) than with valethamate (69%). Tachycardia occurred in 3% of the valethamate group, while no adverse effects were noted with drotaverine. Conclusions: Drotaverine hydrochloride accelerates cervical dilation and shortens labor more effectively than valethamate bromide, with no significant side effects on mother or fetus. It is a safer and more effective option for labor management.