Abstract

Isoxsuprine, a sympathomimetic amine marketed by Crookes (Duvadilan) and Qrganon (Dilavase), inhibits contractions of the uterus and dilates blood vessels. Crookes recommend its use to arrest premature labour, and paradoxically also to accelerate labour at term and to overcome cervical rigidity. Both firms promote isoxsuprine as a vasodilator for use in peripheral vascular disease; we discussed this aspect of the drug in a recent issue.¹