In other reaction, The Federation of Small Businesses said the plan would encourage more women to return to work and boost labour market "flexibility", while the Twins and Multiple Birth Association called it a "step in the right direction".

BBC: Childcare costs scheme 'better for parents'

The drug is not intended for use in women with a multiple pregnancy, such as a twin pregnancy, or other risk factors for preterm birth.

FORBES: New Drug To Prevent Pre-Term Birth Approved

Schering AG, which operates under the name of Berlex Laboratories in the U.S., is a big player in birth-control pills, has blockbuster in the multiple sclerosis treatment Betaseron, and is developing some promising cancer drugs.

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