The problem of the treatment of premature labor has not yet been resolved. The positive effect of using sympathomimetics is not as significant as was initially thought and they are not free of side-effects. A review of the literature forms the basis of a comparison of sympathomimetics with nifedipine and indomethacin. The latter sometimes offer a better alternative but must be used with care. The potential benefits of oxytocin antagonists are still being evaluated.