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The Cochrane Database of Systematic... Jun 2014Prostaglandins have been used for induction of labour since the 1960s. This is one of a series of reviews evaluating methods of induction of labour. This review focuses... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
BACKGROUND
Prostaglandins have been used for induction of labour since the 1960s. This is one of a series of reviews evaluating methods of induction of labour. This review focuses on prostaglandins given per vaginam, evaluating these in comparison with placebo (or expectant management) and with each other; prostaglandins (PGE2 and PGF2a); different formulations (gels, tablets, pessaries) and doses.
OBJECTIVES
To determine the effects of vaginal prostaglandins E2 and F2a for third trimester cervical ripening or induction of labour in comparison with placebo/no treatment or other vaginal prostaglandins (except misoprostol).
SEARCH METHODS
We searched the Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth Group's Trials Register (1 March 2014) and bibliographies of relevant papers.
SELECTION CRITERIA
Clinical trials comparing vaginal prostaglandins used for third trimester cervical ripening or labour induction with placebo/no treatment, with each other, or other methods listed above it on a predefined list of labour induction methods.
DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS
We assessed studies and extracted data independently.
MAIN RESULTS
Seventy randomised controlled trials (RCTs) (11,487 women) are included. In this update seven new RCTs (778 women) have been added. Two of these new trials compare PGE2 with no treatment, four compare different PGE2 formulations (gels versus tablets, or sustained release pessaries) and one trial compares PGF2a with placebo. The majority of trials were at unclear risk of bias for most domains.Overall, vaginal prostaglandin E2 compared with placebo or no treatment probably reduces the likelihood of vaginal delivery not being achieved within 24 hours. The risk of uterine hyperstimulation with fetal heart rate changes is increased (4.8% versus 1.0%, risk ratio (RR) 3.16, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.67 to 5.98, 15 trials, 1359 women). The caesarean section rate is probably reduced by about 10% (13.5% versus 14.8%, RR 0.91, 95% CI 0.81 to 1.02, 36 trials, 6599 women). The overall effect on improving maternal and fetal outcomes (across a variety of measures) is uncertain.PGE2 tablets, gels and pessaries (including sustained release preparations) appear to be as effective as each other, small differences are detected between some outcomes, but these maybe due to chance.
AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS
Prostaglandins PGE2 probably increase the chance of vaginal delivery in 24 hours, they increase uterine hyperstimulation with fetal heart changes but do not effect or may reduce caesarean section rates. They increase the likelihood of cervical change, with no increase in operative delivery rates. PGE2 tablets, gels and pessaries appear to be as effective as each other, any differences between formulations are marginal but may be important.
Topics: Administration, Intravaginal; Dinoprost; Dinoprostone; Female; Humans; Labor, Induced; Oxytocics; Pregnancy; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; Term Birth
PubMed: 24941907
DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD003101.pub3 -
Respiratory Medicine Sep 2013Epidemiological data has established increasing adiposity as a risk factor for incident asthma. However, the mechanisms underlying the association between obesity and... (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND AND AIM
Epidemiological data has established increasing adiposity as a risk factor for incident asthma. However, the mechanisms underlying the association between obesity and asthma are incompletely understood. In the present paper, we review current knowledge of possible mechanisms mediating the observed association between obesity and asthma.
METHODS
Systematic literature review.
RESULTS
Obesity and asthma share some etiological factors, such as a common genetic predisposition and effects of in utero conditions, and may also have common predisposing factors such as physical activity and diet. Obesity results in important changes in the mechanical properties of the respiratory system which could explain the occurrence of asthma. However, there are also plausible biological mechanisms whereby obesity could be expected to either cause or worsen asthma. These include co-morbidities such as gastro-oesophageal reflux, complications from sleep-disordered breathing, breathing at low lung volumes, chronic systemic inflammation, and endocrine factors, including adipokines and reproductive hormones. Obesity related asthma is in general not associated with eosinophilic airway inflammation, and adipokines are likely to play important roles in the inflammatory pathogenesis of asthma in obese individuals.
CONCLUSION
The association between obesity and asthma is not straightforward, and further knowledge is clearly needed, as understanding the underlying mechanisms may lead to new therapeutic options for this high-risk part of the asthma population.
Topics: Adipokines; Adiposity; Adolescent; Adult; Aged; Asthma; Biomarkers; Body Mass Index; Dinoprost; Environment; Epigenesis, Genetic; Female; Genetic Predisposition to Disease; Humans; Life Style; Lung; Male; Middle Aged; Obesity; Oxidative Stress; Respiratory Function Tests; Sex Factors; Young Adult
PubMed: 23642708
DOI: 10.1016/j.rmed.2013.03.019 -
The Cochrane Database of Systematic... Feb 2010Normal tension glaucoma is a clinical condition in which the optic nerve is pathologically excavated and the visual field is disturbed. Nevertheless it has been assumed... (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND
Normal tension glaucoma is a clinical condition in which the optic nerve is pathologically excavated and the visual field is disturbed. Nevertheless it has been assumed that intraocular pressure plays a role in the progression of visual field defects in this disease, but other, mainly vascular factors, have been discussed as well.
OBJECTIVES
The objective of this review is to assess the effects of medical and surgical treatments for normal tension glaucoma.
SEARCH STRATEGY
Trials were identified from the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) (which contains the Cochrane Eyes and Vision Group trials register), MEDLINE, EMBASE and BIOSIS Previews. Bibliographies of identified trials were searched to find additional trials. In addition, investigators and pharmaceutical companies were contacted. Date of last search: January 2001.
SELECTION CRITERIA
This review includes randomised controlled trials in which medical or surgical interventions were compared to no treatment, placebo or other treatment in people with normal tension glaucoma.
DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS
Data were extracted by two reviewers and results were compared for differences. Discrepancies were resolved by discussion. The heterogeneity of interventions, follow-up periods and outcomes did not allow for statistical combinations of the study results.
MAIN RESULTS
According to the selection criteria on visual field loss, eight studies were included in this review. Only three studies focussed on patient relevant outcomes. In one trial a beneficial effect of lowering intraocular pressure was found, but only if data were corrected for cataract development. In two small studies a beneficial effect on visual field loss of brovincamine, a calcium antagonist was reported.
AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS
In one study the effect of intraocular pressure lowering on visual field outcome was only significant when data were corrected for cataract development. The results for calcium antagonists are promising, but larger trials have to be performed. Studies that focussed on reduction of intraocular pressure or haemodynamic variables are not necessarily relevant for the outcome in people with normal tension glaucoma.
Topics: Antihypertensive Agents; Glaucoma; Humans; Intraocular Pressure; Prostaglandins F, Synthetic; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; Sulfonamides; Thiophenes; Timolol; Vincamine
PubMed: 20166063
DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD002222.pub2 -
The British Journal of Ophthalmology Jan 2007To compare the efficacy and tolerability of latanoprost versus brimonidine in the treatment of open-angle glaucoma, ocular hypertension or normal-tension glaucoma. (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
Meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials comparing latanoprost with brimonidine in the treatment of open-angle glaucoma, ocular hypertension or normal-tension glaucoma.
AIM
To compare the efficacy and tolerability of latanoprost versus brimonidine in the treatment of open-angle glaucoma, ocular hypertension or normal-tension glaucoma.
METHOD
Systematic review of randomised controlled trials comparing latanoprost and brimondine, identified by searches including Medline, Embase and Cochrane Controlled Trials Register. Two reviewers independently assessed trials for eligibility and quality and extracted data. Data were synthesised (random effects model) and expressed as the absolute mean intraocular pressure (IOP) reduction difference from baseline to end point for efficacy and relative risk for adverse events. Subgroup analysis and regression were used to explore heterogeneity according to patient characteristics, trial design and quality.
RESULTS
15 publications reporting on 14 trials (1784 participants) were included for meta-analysis. IOP reduction favoured latanoprost (weighted mean difference (WMD) = 1.10 mm Hg (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.57 to 1.63)). Significant heterogeneity was present (chi(2)(13) = 38.29, p = 0.001, I(2) = 66.0%). Subgroup analysis showed greater WMD for studies where data were analysed from end points >6 months duration, cross-over design, open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension and monotherapy. Multiple regression showed no significant association of WMD with trial duration (t(9) = 1.92, p = 0.09), trial design (t(9) = 1.79, p = 0.11), trial quality (t(9) = -0.46, p = 0.66), or monotherapy or adjunctive therapy (t(9) = -2.14, p = 0.06). Fatigue was less commonly associated with latanoprost (RR = 0.27, 95% CI 0.08 to 0.88). Publication bias was not evident on visual inspection of a funnel plot.
CONCLUSION
Latanoprost is more effective than brimonidine as monotherapy in lowering IOP. Brimonidine is associated with a higher rate of fatigue.
Topics: Administration, Topical; Aged; Antihypertensive Agents; Brimonidine Tartrate; Female; Glaucoma; Glaucoma, Open-Angle; Humans; Latanoprost; Male; Middle Aged; Ocular Hypertension; Prostaglandins F, Synthetic; Quinoxalines; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; Treatment Outcome
PubMed: 16956912
DOI: 10.1136/bjo.2006.096693 -
The Cochrane Database of Systematic... 2001This is one of a series of reviews of methods of cervical ripening and labour induction using standardised methodology. (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND
This is one of a series of reviews of methods of cervical ripening and labour induction using standardised methodology.
OBJECTIVES
To determine the effects of extra-amniotic prostaglandin for third trimester cervical ripening or induction of labour.
SEARCH STRATEGY
The Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth Group trials register, the Cochrane Controlled Trials Register and bibliographies of relevant papers. Date of last search: December 2000.
SELECTION CRITERIA
(1) clinical trials comparing extra-amniotic prostaglandin used for third trimester cervical ripening or labour induction with placebo/no treatment or other methods listed above it on a predefined list of labour induction methods; (2) random allocation to the treatment or control group; (3) adequate allocation concealment; (4) violations of allocated management not sufficient to materially affect conclusions; (5) clinically meaningful outcome measures reported; (6) data available for analysis according to the random allocation; (7) missing data insufficient to materially affect the conclusions.
DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS
A strategy has been developed to deal with the large volume and complexity of trial data relating to labour induction. This has involved a two-stage method of data extraction. The initial data were extracted centrally, and incorporated into a series of primary reviews arranged by methods of induction of labour, following a standardised methodology.
MAIN RESULTS
Oxytocin was used to initiate or augment labour significantly less frequently with extra-amniotic prostaglandins when compared to placebo (relative risk 0.50, 95% confidence interval 0.38-0.66). No other findings were significant in the comparisons that were made for this review including when extra-amniotic prostaglandins were compared with other methods of cervical ripening or induction of labour. Although this could suggest that extra-amniotic prostaglandins are as effective as other agents, the findings are difficult to interpret because they are based on very small numbers and may lack the power to show a real difference.
REVIEWER'S CONCLUSIONS
The studies in this review are limited by their small sample sizes which are in many cases further divided into multiple comparison groups. The analyses resulted in most comparisons showing no significant differences, with wide confidence intervals. Although extra-amniotic prostaglandins may be as effective as other modalities in initiating labour, there is little conclusive information from this review to guide clinical practice. An adequately powered randomised controlled trial would be useful to determine if the use of extra-amniotic prostaglandins would lower the rate of caesarean section. However, in the time since these studies were undertaken the use of extra-amniotic prostaglandins has largely been replaced by other modes of prostaglandin administration.
Topics: Cervical Ripening; Dinoprost; Dinoprostone; Female; Humans; Labor, Induced; Oxytocics; Pregnancy; Pregnancy Trimester, Third; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
PubMed: 11406071
DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD003092 -
The Cochrane Database of Systematic... 2000Intravenous prostaglandin E2 and F2 alpha can be used to induce labour. The use of intravenous prostaglandins in this context has been limited by perceived unacceptable... (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND
Intravenous prostaglandin E2 and F2 alpha can be used to induce labour. The use of intravenous prostaglandins in this context has been limited by perceived unacceptable maternal side effect profiles. This is one of a series of reviews of methods of cervical ripening and labour induction using standardised methodology.
OBJECTIVES
To determine the effects of intravenous prostaglandin for third trimester cervical ripening or induction of labour.
SEARCH STRATEGY
The Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth Group trials register, The Cochrane Controlled Trials Register and bibliographies of relevant papers.
SELECTION CRITERIA
The criteria for inclusion included the following: (1) clinical trials comparing intravenous prostaglandin used for third trimester cervical ripening or labour induction with placebo/no treatment or other methods listed above it on a predefined list of labour induction methods; (2) random allocation to the treatment or control group; (3) adequate allocation concealment; (4) violations of allocated management not sufficient to materially affect conclusions; (5) clinically meaningful outcome measures reported; (6) data available for analysis according to the random allocation; (7) missing data insufficient to materially affect the conclusions.
DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS
A strategy has been developed to deal with the large volume and complexity of trial data relating to labour induction. This involves a two-stage method of data extraction. The initial data extraction is done centrally, and incorporated into a series of primary reviews arranged by methods of induction of labour, following a standardised methodology. The data will then be extracted from the primary reviews into a series of secondary reviews, arranged by category of woman. To avoid duplication of data in the primary reviews, the labour induction methods have been listed in a specific order, from one to 25. Each primary review includes comparisons between one of the methods (from two to 25) with only those methods above it on the list.
MAIN RESULTS
Thirteen trials were eligible for inclusion in this review. Two trials (comprising 400 women) compared intravenous prostaglandin E2 to intravenous oxytocin, a further seven trials (comprising 590 women) compared intravenous prostaglandin F2 alpha to intravenous oxytocin. Two trials (comprising 115 women) each randomised women to one of three treatment arms namely intravenous oxytocin or intravenous prostaglandin F2 alpha or prostaglandin E2. One trial reported a comparison of combined oxytocin and prostaglandin F2 alpha and oxytocin alone in 20 women and lastly one trial compared extra amniotic prostaglandin E2 versus intravenous prostaglandin E2 (40 women). The use of intravenous prostaglandin was associated with higher rates of uterine hyperstimulation with changes in the fetal heart rate (relative risk (RR) 6.76, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.23-37.11) and without (RR 4.25, 95%CI 1.48-12.24) compared to oxytocin. Use of prostaglandins was also associated with significantly more maternal side effects (gastrointestinal, thrombophlebitis and pyrexia, RR 3.75, 95% CI 2.46-5.70) than oxytocin. Prostaglandin was no more likely to result in vaginal delivery than oxytocin (RR 0.85, 95% CI 0.61-1.18). No significant differences emerged from subgroup analysis or from the trials comparing combination oxytocin/prostaglandin F2 alpha and oxytocin or extra amniotic versus intravenous prostaglandin E2.
REVIEWER'S CONCLUSIONS
Intravenous prostaglandin is no more efficient than intravenous oxytocin for the induction of labour but its use is associated with higher rates of maternal side effects and uterine hyperstimulation than oxytocin. No conclusions can be drawn form the comparisons of combination of prostaglandin F2 alpha and oxytocin compared to oxytocin alone or extra amniotic and intravenous prostaglandin E2.
Topics: Clinical Trials as Topic; Dinoprost; Dinoprostone; Female; Humans; Injections, Intravenous; Labor, Induced; Oxytocics; Oxytocin; Pregnancy
PubMed: 11034778
DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD002864