Cytotec

What is Cytotec?

Cytotec is the trademark name that Searle Pharmaceticals uses for its Misoprostol. A synthetic prostaglandin, it is approved by the FDA for the prevention of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory, drug-induced gastric ulcers. It is a small and inexpensive pill that is normally taken by mouth, but some physicians will use it to induce labor by oral administration or by placing it inside the vagina.

Prostaglandin is one of the chemicals that play a part in ripening the cervix. A ripe cervix is soft and stretchy, ready to respond to uterine contractions. Cytotec is known to ripen the cervix and cause strong uterine contractions regardless of how it is taken.

How effective is Cytotec?

Cytotec is proven to start labor faster than pitocin, and use of cytotec provides faster labors than pitocin. An interesting criticism and review of the research available in 1995 is available here.

Why choose Cytotec?

Doctors who use cytotec find its efficiency at starting and speeding labor beneficial.

Cytotec is cheap and easy to store making it easily available.

Risks of using Cytotec

Risks for Mother

• Increases risk for uterine hyperstimulation.

• Increases risk of uterine rupture.

• Once administered, its effects cannot be stopped.

• No standard safe, effective dose.

• Use of cytotec for labor stimulation is not approved by the FDA.

• Requires continuous monitoring of baby's heart rate which decreases mobility.

Risks for Baby

• Uterine hyperstimulation can cause abnormal fetal heart rate.

• Increased rates of meconium-stained fluids.

Cytotec Controversy

Cytotec for inducing labor is an off-label use. This means the medication, though approved by the FDA, was never approved for use during labor. However, once a medication is approved by the FDA doctors can prescribe it for other things as well. This off-label use of cytotec has lead to some very strong objection among the birth community. Many caregivers feel the use of a medication in labor before it has been studied for safety is unethical.

For more information about Cytotec

Compare to other ways to start labor.

Pfizer, the drugs manufacturer, has information online. You can view it at their website by clicking here.

GD Searle & Company, the developer of cytotec and manufacturer of the drug at the time the FDA relabeled the drug for use in starting contractions wrote a letter to the FDA expressing their concerns about its use in labor.

Marsden Wagner, MD, MS wrote an informative article about the use of cytotec for Midwifery Today.

References:
Goer, Henci. The Thinking Woman's Guide to a Better Birth. 1999. New York: The Berkley Publishing Group.
Enkin, Keirse, Nilson, Crowther, Duley, Hodnett and Hofmeyr. A guide to effective care in pregnancy and childbirth Third Edition. 2000. Oxford: Oxford University Press.

You May Also Be Interested In: What changes are being assessed during a cervical exam. The Natural Childbirth Directory can help you find more information about birth and locate childbirth professionals. The Coach's Notebook helps you learn tools and techniques to manage labor. Do some self exploration to discover how you will act in labor. Find out how exercise and nutrition can help you achieve your birth plan goals.

© Copyright 2000-2008 Jennifer VanderLaan and Birthing Naturally

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