What is Dinoprostone topical?
Dinoprostone, also known as prostaglandins, is a substance similar to hormones that is produced naturally by the tissues of the body.Dinoprostone is used to relax the muscles in the cervix, which opens the uterus. This helps prepare the woman for labor.Dinoprostone topical can be used in other ways than those listed in the medication guide.
Side effects of Dinoprostone topical
If you experience any of the following symptoms of an allergic reaction, seek immediate medical attention: hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of your lips, face, tongue, or throat.
Inform your caregivers immediately if your contractions become irregular or slow, or if:
- A feeling of lightheadedness, as if you could pass out.
- Weak or shallow breathing
- Pain between contractions.
- Sudden vaginal bleeding;
- Unexpected stomach pain;
- Chest pain;
- Easy bruising and unusual bleeding
- Bleeding from a surgical incision or vein where the IV needle was inserted;
- Any bleeding that won't stop
Dinoprostone topical side effects may include:
- More frequent contractions
- The slow heartbeats of the baby
- Nausea, stomach pain;
- Feeling of warmth in the vaginal region
- Backache
- Fever.
There may be other side effects. For medical advice on side effects, call your doctor. The FDA can be contacted at 1-800-FDA-1088 to report side effects.
Similar/related drugs
Methotrexate, Oxtocin, Mifepristone, Pitocin, Hemabate, Carboprost, and Cervidil
Warnings
Dinoprostone topical should not be used if you're allergic to prostaglandins, have active genital shingles with a vaginal lession, placenta prévia, or your water has ruptured. Make sure that your doctor is aware of your complete pregnancy history. This includes any C-sections or major surgeries performed on your uterus.
Before you take this drug
This medicine should not be used if:
- Active genital herpes accompanied by a vaginal lession
- Placenta previa: The placenta lies below the fetus inside your uterus.
- If your water is broken,
Make sure that your doctor is aware of your complete pregnancy history.
- If you've ever had a C-section or major surgery on your uterus,
- If you've ever had a child born in the breech position (not head first),
- If you've ever experienced a difficult birth or delivery,
Tell your doctor about any of the following:
- Liver or kidney disease
- Glaucoma;
- Asthma;
- If you are over 30,
- If your pregnancy has reached full term (40 weeks), you should consult a doctor.
Dinoprostone, when used as an inducer of labor, is not believed to harm the unborn child. While using dinoprostone topical, you should not breastfeed.
How to take Dinoprostone?
Dinoprostone, a gel or supppository, is applied directly to the cervix via the vagina with a special applicator. Dinoprostone topical will be inserted by a healthcare provider at the right time to prepare your cervix. Dinoprostone will usually be administered while lying flat on your back. A vaginal scope may be used by your doctor to examine your cervix. Your doctor can then determine the dosage of the medication. If your doctor does not tell you otherwise, you will have to lie down for at least 15 minutes and up to two hours. Dinoprostone will allow you to monitor your contractions as well as the heartbeat of your baby. Your doctor will check your cervix regularly to see how far it has dilated. The contractions may be more frequent and last longer if you use Dinoprostone topical. Dinoprostone may cause regular uterine contractions within a few minutes if your uterus reacts. Other medications may be prescribed to stimulate uterine contractions. Your doctor may administer a second dose if your uterus doesn't respond within six hours. The topical suppository of dinoprostone is removed when you start labor or after 12 hours.
What happens if I miss the dose?
Dinoprostone does not require a daily dosage schedule because it is only used in clinical settings.
What happens if I overdose?
Overdoses are unlikely because dinoprostone is administered by healthcare professionals in a medical environment.
What should be avoided?
If your doctor prescribes any restrictions regarding food, beverage, or activity, follow their instructions.
Interaction with other drug
Dinoprostone can be affected by other drugs, such as vitamins and herbal products. Inform your doctor of all the medicines you are currently taking and those that you will begin or stop taking.
