home > drugs a-z list > prepidil (dinoprostone cervical gel) drug center > prepidil (dinoprostone cervical gel) drug - patient how to take

In this Article

• What is dinoprostone topical (Prepidil)?
• What are the possible side effects of dinoprostone topical (Prepidil)?
• What is the most important information I should know about dinoprostone topical (Prepidil)?
• What should I discuss with my health care provider before receiving dinoprostone topical (Prepidil)?
• How is dinoprostone topical given (Prepidil)?
• What happens if I miss a dose (Prepidil)?
• What happens if I overdose (Prepidil)?
• What should I avoid after receiving dinoprostone topical (Prepidil)?
• What other drugs will affect dinoprostone topical (Prepidil)?
• Where can I get more information?

What should I discuss with my health care provider before receiving dinoprostone topical (Prepidil)?

You should not be treated with this medication if you are allergic to prostaglandins, or if you have certain conditions, such as:

• 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.

If you have any of these conditions, you may not be able to receive dinoprostone.

Before you receive dinoprostone, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have:

• kidney disease;
• liver disease;
• glaucoma; or
• a history of asthma.

How is dinoprostone topical given (Prepidil)?

Dinoprostone is a gel that is placed directly onto the cervix through the vagina using a special applicator. Your doctor, nurse, or other healthcare professional will give you this medication.

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.

After you are given this medication, you will need to remain lying down for at least 15 minutes unless your doctor tells you otherwise.

If your uterus does not respond to dinoprostone within 6 hours, your doctor may apply a second dose.

If your uterus responds to the medication, 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.