Efficacy Of Subcutaneous Injection Research Articles

Effectiveness of Subcutaneous Injection of Sterile Water to the Lower Back for Pain Relief in Labor

The analgesic efficacy of subcutaneous injection of sterile water compared to isotonic saline was investigated in a randomized, controlled study on a total of 100 women in the active phase of labor and who complained of low back pain. Pain perception was rated on a numerical rating scale before and at 10 and 45 minutes after the injection. The initial pain score was the same in both groups and pain relief was expressed by both groups irrespective of the solution injected, but the sterile water group had significantly higher relief scores compared to those receiving saline. This was not influenced by maternal age, parity, education, body mass index, cervical dilatation at intervention or fetal size, suggesting that subcutaneous injection of sterile water to the lower back provides relief from back pain during labor.

The Practical Aspects of Therapy with rHuEPO

A number of multicenter US trials provide extensive experience with the benefits of recombinant human erythropoietin. The dose-response relationships obtained using epoetin-beta are presented. Recommendations with respect to optimal dose requirements as derived from these trials are reviewed. How low-dose therapy affects hematocrit as well as its ability to decrease transfusion requirements is discussed. Low-dose therapy is also examined in the context of a possible decrease in adverse experiences. Dosing regimens, including once weekly vs. three times weekly i.v. therapy, is explored. Preliminary information on the efficacy of subcutaneous injections is discussed in light of the pharmacokinetic data currently available. The importance of adequate iron stores is emphasized at all doses. Regardless of the route of administration, the level of iron stores is critical.