Other Brands/Names

The trade name for this medicine is Cervidil.

How It Works

This medicine contains prostaglandin E2, which can stimulate contractions of uterine smooth muscle. Prostaglandin E2 resembles the compound produced naturally during vaginal delivery. Dinoprostone also activates collagenase (an enzyme that breaks down cervical collagen), making the cervix softer, more flexible, and open. Through these actions, the baby’s passage through the birth canal is expected to be easier.

Indications

The drug is used for several purposes:

• To induce labor in pregnant women who have reached term and in certain medical situations.

• To remove retained intrauterine tissue in cases of miscarriage.

Contraindication

There are several contraindications for this medicine, such as:

• A history of or current pelvic inflammatory disease.

• Vaginal or cervical infection.

• Placenta previa, in which the placenta partially or completely covers the cervix.

• Unexplained vaginal bleeding.

• Prior cesarean section or other uterine surgery.

• More than five prior deliveries at a gestational age of 20 weeks or more.

• Diseases of the heart, lungs, kidneys, or liver, and related conditions.

Side Effects

The side effects that can occur from the usage of this medicine are:

• Abdominal cramping.

• Nausea or vomiting.

• Diarrhea.

• Fever.

• Skin flushing or redness.

• Back pain.

• Vaginal discomfort or irritation.

Additionally, potentially fatal reactions can occur, including uterine or placental abnormalities, and even cardiac arrest.

Types

This medicine is available as a pessary, a device inserted into the vagina and later removed. Dinoprostone is also supplied internationally as tablets or gel.

Dosage

Dinoprostone is used to soften and dilate the cervix so that labor can begin. The medicine is administered as a device inserted into the vagina or near the cervix, delivering approximately 0.3 mg dosage per hour. The device, which contains 10 mg of dinoprostone, is removed once the desired cervical effect is achieved, or after 12–24 hours if cervical dilation remains inadequate.

Safety

Dinoprostone is not intended for non-medical uses, such as deliberately ending a pregnancy without a specific medical indication. There are no adequate data regarding use during breastfeeding, so the potential risk to the infant is uncertain. Discuss the risks and benefits with a physician.

Drug Interactions

When dinoprostone is used with other uterotonic medicines that stimulate contractions, the uterine response may increase.

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