Prepidil

Generic name:dinoprostone topical [ DYE-no-PROS-tone-TOP-ik-al ]
Brand names: Cervidil, Prepidil, Prostin E2
Drug class:Uterotonic agents

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Sep 23, 2020. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is Prepidil?

Dinoprostone is a prostaglandin, a hormone-like substance that is naturally produced by tissues in the body.

Prepidil 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.

Prepidil may be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Warnings

You should not be treated with Prepidil 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 had a baby born in a breech position, or if you have had a difficult labor or delivery of a previous child.

Before taking this medicine

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 Prepidil.

How is Prepidil given?

Dinoprostone is a gel or suppository that is placed directly onto the cervix through the vagina using a special applicator. A healthcare provider will insert Prepidil 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.

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