Induction: Cytotec (Misoprostol)
By Danell Swim
January 19, 2008
Cytotec is a drug that is used for reducing the risk of ulcers in some patients, as well as inducing abortions. However, its most widely known use is for the off-label induction of labor in term babies. It is not FDA approved for use on pregnant women, however is commonly used as an effective means to jumpstart labor.
It is administered by placing a small pill, or piece of a pill, into the cervical opening. Typically, contractions begin soon thereafter, further opening the cervix and readying it for the passage of the baby. However, cytotec use has been linked with uterine rupture, severe maternal hemorrhage, hysterectomy and death. It absolutely does work for the induction of labor, but at great risk to the health of the patient and baby.
Doctors who prescribe cytotec for labor induction are doing so without FDA approval, without the approval of the manufacturer of cytotec, and without evidence based research that demonstrates the safety of cytotec.
For a thorough article about the dangers of cytotec, see Induced and Seduced: The Dangers of Cytotec
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