[Misoprostol and induction of labour]

Misoprostol (Cytotec) is a synthetic analogue of PGE1, not yet registered for Obstetric practice. Vowing to its low cost and high efficacy there is marked interest towards this medicament.

47 patients with induction of labour are distributed into two groups: Gr.A (n = 25), receiving Misoprostol and Gr.B (n = 22) with Oxytocin in perfusion.

Protocol of treatment with PGE, includes 50 microg per os every 2 hrs. and in Gr. B standard solution of Oxytocin 5 IU. Before the beginning of induction Bishop Score and NST for 20 mins. is evaluated. The interval induction--delivery is much shorter in Gr.A, with a median of 479.00 +/- 105.44 mins., in comparison with 727.00 +/- 88.87 mins. in Gr.B. Uterine tachysystole is registered more frequently in Gr.A--8%, with 4.54% in Gr.B.

With receivers of Misoprostol, 76% deliver within 24 hrs. of induction. And there is no significant difference in the recorded monitor data for FDS and Apgar score of the neonate as well as the method of delivery.

Oral Misoprostol is an effective method of induction of delivery with low Bishop Score. But there is a lack of sufficient data regarding the optimal regime and safety and with incorrect dosing may lead to unacceptable high incidence of complications.