Cervidil

Cervidil^® is the only FDA-approved removable treatment for cervical ripening. Unlike vaginal pills or creams, Cervidil can be removed at any time during its course of therapy.

Cervidil^® Vaginal Insert (dinoprostone, 10 mg) is indicated for the initiation and/or continuation of cervical ripening in patients at or near term for whom there is a medical indication for labor induction.

Approximately 4 million babies are born each year in the United States. Some of these pregnancies will face a maternal or fetal complication which necessitates an induction of labor. While the majority of women who undergo labor induction will have a ripe cervix and be readily induced, there are some women who will have an unfavorable or unripe cervix requiring medical intervention.

Cervical ripening - an important element in the continuum of the physiologic process of labor - normally occurs during late pregnancy and early labor. Various changes to the biochemical composition of the cervical connective tissue become apparent at this time, making the cervix compliant, effaced, and dilated.

Cervidil Vaginal Insert (dinoprostone, 10 mg) was designed to address difficulties associated with other currently available cervical ripening agents. Administration is simple: There is no need for a speculum or stirrups, and Cervidil can be inserted digitally by a physician or trained obstetrical personnel in a hospital setting.

Cervidil is the only FDA-approved removable treatment for cervical ripening. Unlike vaginal pills or creams, Cervidil can be removed at any time during its course of therapy.

Safety Information

Cervidil is not recommended for some women, such as those in whom oxytocic drugs are generally contraindicated, or when prolonged contraction of the uterus may be detrimental, such as previous cesarean section or major uterine surgery. The most commonly reported side effects include uterine hyperstimulation with and without fetal distress, and fetal distress without uterine hyperstimulation. Cervidil should be removed 12 hours after insertion, after onset of active labor, or should uterine hyperstimulation occur. Uterine activity, fetal status, and the progression of cervical dilation and effacement should be carefully monitored. The activity of oxytocic agents may be augmented by Cervidil, and their concomitant use is not recommended.