Camylofin in the management of prolonged labor: a review of evidence

Abstract

Prolonged labor can lead to increased maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. Hence, it warrants an early detection and appropriate clinical management. Active management of labor has shown to decrease the occurrence of prolonged labor. Administering antispasmodics during labor facilitates a faster and more effective dilatation of the cervix.  Hence, antispasmodics can be used to decrease the incidence of prolonged labor. Camylofin, a potent antispasmodic, with a dual mode of action, has been used in the augmentation of labor for more than six decades. There is a growing body of evidence to support the efficacy and tolerability of Camylofin in the active management of labor.  A review of published evidence suggests that Camylofin has superior efficacy in augmentation of labor on multiple counts like rate of cervical dilation, duration of active phase of first stage of labor and induction delivery interval, when compared to other spasmolytics like drotaverine, hyoscine and valethemate. It also has a benefit of a convenient single dose as compared to the other spasmolytics listed earlier. Camylofin has other advantages like a quick onset of action, prolonged action, no adverse effects on uterine contractility, no contraindication for use in uterine inertia cases and overall good tolerability for both mother and fetus. Given the superior efficacy and benefits that this drug exhibits, coupled with its excellent tolerability profile, Camylofin should be the first choice and may be preferred over other drugs for cervical dilatation and acceleration of active phase of labor.