Why Do Tocolytics Cause Pulmonary Edema?

With the discontinuation of the tocolytic, the vasodilated vessels return to normal tone. During delivery, uterine contractions lead to autotransfusion. The increased venous tone and the increased blood volume can then lead to pulmonary edema, usually in the postpartum period.

Can terbutaline cause pulmonary edema?

Tocolytic Induced Pulmonary Edema

The systemic use of (2 agonists (terbutaline, salbutamol) to interrupt preterm labor is associated with a substantial risk of pulmonary edema. The pathogenesis is unknown. Pulmonary edema generally develops within 72 hours of the initiation of therapy.

Why beta agonists cause pulmonary edema?

β 2 -agonists also cause reactive hypokalaemia (58-60), following hyperglycaemia caused by insulin-induced potassium influx into cells (61)(62)(63). Hypokalaemia causes arrhythmias, which increase the risk of pulmonary oedema (19, (59)(60)(61).