Abstract

In vitro study the capacity of isolated cytotrophoblast cells (placental cells) treated with cocaine hydrochloride
ranging in dose level from 1-3.00 ?molar (0.25-75 mg/ml).to synthesize progesterone was examined. 25
hydroxycholesterol (OHC) or low density lipoprotein (LDL was added in the media as substrate to stimulate
progesterone synthesis. In situ study, prostaglandins levels (PGE2 and PGF2?) were measured in the aspirated
amniotic fluid obtained from subjects who used cocaine throughout their pregnancy. The data show progesterone
synthesis was significantly decreased (p<0.05) in vitro study, in situ study prostaglandin (PGE2 and PGF2?)
levels in the aspirated amniotic fluid were significantly increased (p<0.01). To determine whether cocaine effects
cAMP synthesis in the isolated cytotrophoblast cells, cAMP level was measured in the presence of cocaine the
data showed decreased cAMP level (p>0.01). Data on birth weights of newborn and gestational age of mothers
in cocaine users showed a significant decrease (p<0.05) and the incidence of placental abruptio, a serious
complications in pregnancy showed significant increase (p<0.001) in cocaine users.
We conclude that cocaine induced decreased progesterone synthesis in the placental cells and an increased
prostaglandins level in the amniotic fluid is the cause of early termination of pregnancy in subjects using cocaine
during pregnancy.

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