Cervidil (Vaginal)
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 purposes not listed in this medication guide.
warnings
What is the most important information I should know aboutCervidil (Vaginal)?
You should not be treated with this medicine if you are allergic to prostaglandins, or if you have:
- 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.
Tell your doctor if you have ever had:
- liver or kidney disease;
- glaucoma;
- asthma;
- if you are 30 years or older; or
- if your pregnancy is at full term (40 weeks).
Dinoprostone is not expected to be harmful to the unborn baby when used to induce labor.
You should not breastfeed while you are being treated with dinoprostone topical.
Side Effects
What are the side effects ofCervidil (Vaginal)?
Get emergency medical help if you havesigns 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, or if you have:
- a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out;
- 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 where an IV needle was placed; or
- any bleeding that will not stop.
Common side effects may include:
- contractions that are more frequent;
- slow heartbeats in the baby;
- nausea, stomach pain;
- feeling of warmth in the vaginal area;
- back pain; or
- fever.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
Can I takeCervidil (Vaginal)if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?
You should not breastfeed while you are being treated with dinoprostone topical.
Interactions
What drugs and food should I avoid while takingCervidil (Vaginal)?
Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.
Dosage Guidelines & Tips
How to takeCervidil (Vaginal)?
UseCervidil (Vaginal)exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.
Dinoprostone is agelorsuppositorythat is placed directly onto the cervix through the vagina using a special applicator. A healthcare provider will insert this medicine at the correct time best prepare your cervix.
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.
You will need to remain lying down for 15 to 30 minutes, and possibly for up to 2 hours, unless your doctor tells you otherwise.
Your contractions and your baby's heartbeat will be constantly monitored after you are treated with dinoprostone. Your doctor will also check your cervix frequently to determine how much it has dilated.
Dinoprostone topical can cause contractions to occur more often and they may also last longer.
If your uterus responds to dinoprostone, 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.
If your uterus does not respond to dinoprostone within 6 hours, your doctor may apply a second dose.
A dinoprostone topicalsuppositoryis usually removed once you begin labor, or 12 hours after the medicine was inserted.
Since dinoprostone is used when needed in a clinical setting, it does not have a daily dosing schedule.
Overdose Signs
What happens if I overdose onCervidil (Vaginal)?
Since this medicine is given by a healthcare professional in a medical setting, an overdose is unlikely to occur.