Labor induction with misoprostol

Authors
Citation
Da. Wing, Labor induction with misoprostol, AM J OBST G, 181(2), 1999, pp. 339-345
Citations number
36
Categorie Soggetti
Reproductive Medicine","da verificare
Journal title
AMERICAN JOURNAL OF OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY
ISSN journal
00029378 → ACNP
Volume
181
Issue
2
Year of publication
1999
Pages
339 - 345
Database
ISI
SICI code
0002-9378(199908)181:2<339:LIWM>2.0.ZU;2-Y
Abstract
Misoprostol, a prostaglandin E-1 analog, is widely used in the United State s for cervical ripening and labor induction. Its use for these indications is not approved by the US Food and Drug Administration. The only Food and D rug Administration-approved indication in the product labeling is the treat ment and prevention of intestinal ulcer disease resulting from nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory use. Multiple trials have proved that misoprostol is an effective agent for cervical ripening and labor induction in term pregnancy ; however, investigations continue regarding the optimal dose, dosing regim en, and route of administration. Uterine contraction abnormalities are ofte n found in association with higher misoprostol doses. Some trials also indi cate increased frequencies of meconium passage, neonatal acidemia, and cesa rean delivery for fetal distress in women receiving higher doses of misopro stol. Overall, most trials fail to demonstrate a significant change in the cesarean delivery rate with the use of this agent. Misoprostol is an effect ive agent for cervical ripening and labor induction when used in a judiciou s and cautious fashion.