- Brand Name : Cervidil
- Drug Class : Abortifacient, Vaginal Preparations, Other
- Medical Author : Divya Jacob, Pharm. D.
- Medical Reviewer : Sarfaroj Khan, BHMS, PGD Health Operations
- _eael_post_view_count : 11
What Is Dinoprostone and How Does It Work?
Dinoprostone is a prescription medication used for the treatment of cervical ripening and for terminating the pregnancy.
- Dinoprostone is available under the following different brand names: Cervidil, Prepidil, Prostaglandin E2, Prostin E2
What Are Dosages of Dinoprostone?
Adult dosage
Vaginal insert
- 10mg
Endocervical gel
- 0.5mg/3g (3g)
Vaginal suppository
- 20mg
Cervical Ripening
Adult dosage
- Cervidil: One insert in posterior fornix; remove at the onset of active labor or after 12 hours
- Prepidil gel: 2.5 mL (0.5 mg) in the cervical canal using syringe and catheter; may repeat after 6 hours, maximum cumulative dose 1.5 mg/24 hr
Pregnancy Termination
Adult dosage
- Prostin E2: One suppository (20 mg) intravaginal (high in the vagina) every 3-5 hours until abortion occurs; do not exceed more than 2 days of continuous administration
Dosage Considerations – Should be Given as Follows:
- See “Dosages”
What Are Side Effects Associated with Using Dinoprostone?
Common side effects of Dinoprostone include:
- more frequent contractions,
- slow heartbeats in the baby,
- nausea, stomach pain,
- a feeling of warmth in the vaginal area,
- back pain, or
- fever.
Serious side effects of Dinoprostone include:
- signs of an allergic reaction: hives, itching; wheezing, difficult breathing; feeling light-headed, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat,
- a light-headed feeling,
- weak or shallow breathing;
- intense pain between contractions,
- sudden vaginal bleeding,
- unexpected stomach pain,
- chest pain
- easy bruising,
- unusual bleeding,
- bleeding from a wound, surgical incision, or vein at the injection site, or
- any bleeding that will not stop.
Rare side effects of Dinoprostone include:
- none
This is not a complete list of side effects and other serious side effects or health problems that may occur as a result of the use of this drug. Call your doctor for medical advice about serious side effects or adverse reactions. You may report side effects or health problems to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.