How does it work?

Dinoprostone is a naturally occuring female hormone which is also known as prostaglandin E2. It binds to a specific group of receptors known as EP receptors. When dinoprostone binds to these receptors, it leads to a complicated series of chemical reactions. This ultimately results in the opening of the cervix and contraction of uterine muscle. Dinoprostone is therefore used to open the cervix in preparation for childbirth and to induce labour.

What is it used for?

Induction of labour

Warning!

Uterine and fetal activity must be monitored regularly.

This product is only available to hospitals and clinics with specialised obstetric units. It should only be used where 24 hour resident medical cover is provided.

Use caution when handling this product to prevent contact with the skin. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after administration.

Use with caution in

Abnormal increase in uterine contractions

Asthma or history of asthma

Epilepsy or history of epilepsy

Glaucoma

High blood pressure

Scars on the womb (uterine scars)

Not to be used in

A history of pelvic inflammatory disease

A low lying placenta which either covers or is near the opening to the womb (placenta praevia)

Fetal distress

Fetus is in the wrong position for birth

Heart disease

History of difficult or traumatic deliveries

Kidney disease

Liver disease

Lung disease

Pelvic inflammatory disease

People who have had cervical or uterine surgery

Surgical operation for delivery of baby

Unexplained vaginal bleeding

Women who have had over five previous, full term pregnancies

This medicine should not be used if you are allergic to one or any of its ingredients. Please inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have previously experienced such an allergy. If you feel you have experienced an allergic reaction, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine.

This medicine is used in pregnancy to induce labour.

Breastfeeding - not applicable.

Side effects

Medicines and their possible side effects can affect individual people in different ways. The following are some of the side effects that are known to be associated with this medicine. Because a side effect is stated here, it does not mean that all people using this medicine will experience that or any side effect.

Rash

Diarrhoea

Fever (pyrexia)

Tearing of the uterus (uterine rupture)

Nausea and vomiting

Increase in frequency and strength of womb contractions

The heart stops beating (cardiac arrest)

Breathing difficulties due to a narrowing of the airways (bronchospasm)

High blood pressure (hypertension)

Foetal distress

The side effects listed above may not include all of the side effects reported by the drug's manufacturer. For more information about any other possible risks associated with this medicine, please read the information provided with the medicine or consult your doctor or pharmacist.

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