[Cytotec: an effective drug for the induction of labor]

Abstract

Objective: Our purpose was to compare the safety and efficacy of intravaginal Cytotec versus Oxytocin for induction of labor.

Study design: Two hundredth seventy six of patients with indications for induction of labor were assigned to receive either intravaginal Cytotec or Oxytocin. Cytotec were placed in the posterior vaginal fornix every three (3) hours with a potential maximum of six (6) doses. Oxytocin were administered to a standard protocol of our clinic.

Results: Among those evaluated 138 received Cytotec and 137 received Oxytocin. The overage interval from start of induction to vaginal delivery was shorter in the Cytotec group (1332.4 +/- 846.5 min) than in the Oxytocin group (1523 +/- 705.6 min). There were no significant differences in the routes of delivery. 20.7% of the Cytotec treated patients and 28% of the Oxytocin treated patients required abdominal delivery.

Conclusions: Intravaginal administration of Cytotec appears to be as effective as Oxytocin labor induction.