How is betamethasone administered for fetal lung maturity?

How is betamethasone administered for fetal lung maturity?

• A. Given IM x2; 24 hours apart
• B. Given IV bolus daily for 2 days
• C. Given IM once only
• D. Given IM x2; 12 hours apart

Answer: (A)

Betamethasone is given to accelerate fetal lung maturity by boosting surfactant production. The standard approach is two intramuscular injections of 12 mg each, administered 24 hours apart. This spacing gives the fetus time to develop surfactant and reduces the risk of respiratory distress syndrome if preterm birth occurs. Avoid IV bolus regimens, and avoid giving a single dose or two doses only 12 hours apart, because the protective effect relies on the full two-dose course spaced about a day apart.

Betamethasone is given to accelerate fetal lung maturity by boosting surfactant production. The standard approach is two intramuscular injections of 12 mg each, administered 24 hours apart. This spacing gives the fetus time to develop surfactant and reduces the risk of respiratory distress syndrome if preterm birth occurs.

Avoid IV bolus regimens, and avoid giving a single dose or two doses only 12 hours apart, because the protective effect relies on the full two-dose course spaced about a day apart.