Prepidil
Dinoprostone
Prepidil
Prepidil is an oxytocic, prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) medication, available as a vaginal gel that is applied to the cervix in order to induce labor in pregnant women. Prepidil helps to initiate or speed up cervical "ripening" during childbirth, allowing the cervix to dilate and respond to contractions more readily in women who are at or near term.
In some cases, Prepidil may cause uterine hyperstimulation, with or without fetal distress.
For more information, see our Prepidil side effects page.
Prepidil can be used during childbirth to help dilate the cervix so that contractions may occur. Prepidil is available as a vaginal gel that is applied by a doctor in a hospital setting and left on the cervix.
Tell your doctor about all prescription and non-prescription medications you may be taking along with Prepidil, including vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products. The following drugs may interact with this medication:
Typical Dosage Recommendations
Prepidil gel is applied to the cervix using a dosing apparatus with a catheter on the end. After the gel is administered, patients should lie on their backs for 15-30 minutes to minimize leakage of the gel. A repeat dose may be given if there is no change in cervical dilation.
Prepidil Overdose
Overdose is not likely, since Prepidil is used as a single dose in a single application. Uterine hyperstimulation with or without fetal distress may occur in some cases. Remove the insert immediately if hyperstimulation occurs.
December 9, 1992
A Black Box warning on Prepidil and other oxytocic agents warns consumers and healthcare professionals that dinoprostone should be used only with strict adherence to recommended dosages by trained personnel.
There is an increased risk of a complication known as postpartum disseminated intravascular coagulation in women who are over the age of 30 and those with a gestational age over 40 weeks.
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