What is Prepidil (Dinoprostone Topical)?

Dinoprostone is a prostaglandin, a hormone-like substance that is naturally produced by tissues in the body.
Dinoprostone topical is used in a pregnant woman to relax the muscles of the cervix (opening of the uterus) in preparation for inducing labor at the end of a pregnancy.
Dinoprostone topical may be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What is the most important information I should know about Prepidil (Dinoprostone Topical)?

You should not be treated with this medication if you are allergic to prostaglandins, or if you have active genital herpes with a vaginal lesion, placenta previa, or if your water has broken.
Be sure your doctor knows your entire pregnancy history, especially if you have ever had a C-section or major surgery on your uterus, if you have ever had a baby born in a breech position, or if you have ever had a difficult labor or delivery of a previous child.
Also tell your doctor if you have kidney or liver disease, glaucoma, or a history of asthma.
After you have received dinoprostone topical, tell your caregivers at once if your contractions slow down or become uneven, if you feel like you have a fever, or if you have any sudden vaginal bleeding.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Prepidil (Dinoprostone Topical)?

You should not be treated with this medication if you are allergic to prostaglandins, or if you have certain conditions, such as:

• active genital herpes with a vaginal lesion
• placenta previa (the placenta is below the fetus in your uterus); or
• if your water has broken

Be sure your doctor knows your entire pregnancy history, especially:

• if you have ever had a C-section or major surgery on your uterus
• if you have ever had a baby born in a breech position (not head-first); or
• if you have ever had a difficult labor or delivery of a previous child

If you have any of these conditions, you may not be able to receive dinoprostone.
Before you receive dinoprostone, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have:

• kidney disease
• liver disease
• glaucoma; or
• a history of asthma

Prepidil Side Effects

What are the possible side effects of Prepidil (Dinoprostone Topical)?

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Tell your caregivers at once if your contractions slow down or become uneven, if you feel like you have a fever, or if you have any sudden vaginal bleeding.
Less serious side effects may include:

• nausea, stomach pain
• back pain; or
• feeling of warmth in the vaginal area

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Prepidil Interactions

What other drugs affect Prepidil (Dinoprostone Topical)?

This list is not complete and there may be other drugs that can interact with dinoprostone. Tell your doctor about all your prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start a new medication without telling your doctor.

What should I avoid while taking Prepidil (Dinoprostone Topical)?

Follow your doctor’s instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity after you are treated with dinoprostone.

Prepidil Dosage

How should I take Prepidil (Dinoprostone Topical)?

Dinoprostone is a gel that is placed directly onto the cervix through the vagina using a special applicator. Your doctor, nurse, or other healthcare professional will give you this medication.
Dinoprostone is usually given while you are lying on your back. Your doctor may use a vaginal speculum to view your cervix. This will help your doctor determine how much of this medication to use.
After you are given this medication, you will need to remain lying down for at least 15 minutes unless your doctor tells you otherwise.
If your uterus does not respond to dinoprostone within 6 hours, your doctor may apply a second dose.
If your uterus responds to the medication, you may begin having regular uterine contractions within a few hours. You may also be given other medications to help stimulate your uterine contractions and make them more regular.

What happens if I overdose on Prepidil (Dinoprostone Topical)?

Tell your caregivers right away if you think you have received too much of this medicine.
Overdose symptoms may include increased contractions or more intense labor pains.

What happens if I miss a dose of Prepidil (Dinoprostone Topical)?

Since dinoprostone is given as needed by a healthcare professional, it is not likely that you will miss a dose.
Sourced from everydayhealth.com