What is the maximum intramuscular dose of pethidine for women?

The maximum intramuscular dose of pethidine, also known as meperidine, for women, particularly in the context of pain relief during labor, is 100 milligrams. This dosage is established to provide effective analgesia while minimizing the risk of side effects. Pethidine works as an opioid analgesic, and it's important to administer it within recommended limits to ensure both maternal and fetal safety.

Using 100 milligrams as the maximum allows for adequate pain control while also aligns with clinical guidelines that recommend vigilant monitoring for adverse effects, especially when used in a labor setting. The use of higher doses beyond this limit can increase the risk of complications, such as respiratory depression in both the mother and neonate, making adherence to this maximum crucial.

In contrast, the other suggested dosages fall below the established maximum limit, which may not provide sufficient pain relief for women in labor. Hence, they are not recommended as the upper threshold. Understanding this dosage is vital for midwives to manage pain effectively while ensuring the safety and wellbeing of both the mother and the child.