Dinoprostone, Prostaglandin E2 cervical gel

What is this medicine?

DINOPROSTONE (dye noe PROST one) is used to help dilate the cervix in pregnant women who are at or near term. This will help to induce labor.

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is inserted into the vagina and then applied to your cervix by a health-care professional in a hospital or clinic setting. Remain lying down for 15 to 30 minutes after it is inserted. Your doctor will stop this medicine when the proper response occurs or when active labor begins.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

• breathing problems

• chest pain

• dizziness or fainting

• fever of 100.4 degrees F (38 degrees C) or higher

• unusual or foul-smelling vaginal discharge

• unusual vaginal bleeding, pelvic pain, or cramping

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• diarrhea

• headache

• mild increase in body temperature that goes away

• nausea, vomiting

What may interact with this medicine?

• oxytocin

What if I miss a dose?

This does not apply.

Where should I keep my medicine?

This drug is given in a hospital or clinic and will not be stored at home.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of the following conditions:

• active genital, vaginal, uterine, or pelvic infection

• anemia

• glaucoma

• heart disease

• high blood pressure

• kidney disease

• liver disease

• lung or breathing disease, like asthma

• placenta previa

• previous pregnancy with difficult labor, traumatic delivery or cesarean section

• previous surgery to the uterus

• seizure disorder

• uterine rupture or scars

• vaginal bleeding

• 6 or more previous pregnancies

• an unusual or allergic reaction to dinoprostone, prostaglandins, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

• breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

You will be closely monitored while you receive this medicine.

Contact your doctor or health care professional immediately if you get signs and symptoms of infection or other complications, such as pelvic or lower abdominal pain, an unpleasant vaginal discharge, fever, chills, or increase in vaginal bleeding several days after treatment.