Merck + Co., Inc.

Mark A Cukierski

Joanne Waldstreicher

Stanley G Spence

The present invention provides for a method of treating preterm labor in a subject in need of such treatment comprising administration of a therapeutically effective amount of an inhibitor of 5.alpha.-reductase type 1 to the subject. The present invention further provides for a method of preventing premature labor in a subject susceptible thereto comprising administration of a labor-preventive amount of an inhibitor of 5.alpha.-reductase type 1 to the subject. Further, the present invention also relates to a method of reducing the risk of premature labor in a subject at risk therefor. The present invention also provides for a method for stopping labor preparatory (i.e., prior) to Cesarean delivery in a subject in need of such treatment comprising administration of a therapeutically effective amount of an inhibitor of 5.alpha.-reductase type 1 to the subject. Further, the present invention provides for compositions useful in the methods of the present invention, as well as a method of manufacture of a medicament useful for treating pre-term labor and for stopping labor preparatory to Cesarean delivery.

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Souderton, PA, United States of America

Mark A Cukierski