Ritodrine is primarily used as a tocolytic agent to delay premature labor in pregnant women. It works by relaxing the uterine muscles, thereby reducing the frequency and intensity of contractions. This helps in prolonging pregnancy, allowing more time for fetal development and administration of corticosteroids to enhance lung maturity in the fetus. It is often administered intravenously in a hospital setting under close medical supervision to monitor both maternal and fetal responses. However, its use is carefully considered due to potential side effects such as increased heart rate, blood pressure fluctuations, and possible cardiovascular complications. It is typically reserved for specific cases where the benefits outweigh the risks.