Vaginal misoprostol vs. concentrated oxytocin plus low-dose prostaglandin E2 for second trimester pregnancy termination.
OBJECTIVE
To examine the efficacy of vaginal misoprostol for mid-trimester pregnancy termination.


METHODS
This randomized trial compared misoprostol, 200 microg per vaginum q 12 h to a protocol of concentrated oxytocin plus low-dose vaginal prostaglandin E2 suppositories (10 mg q 6 h). Success was defined as an induction-to-delivery interval < or =24 h.


RESULTS
Interim analysis of the first 30 (15-misoprostol, 15-concentrated oxytocin) women demonstrated that the 2 groups were similar with regard to indication for delivery, gestational age, and demographic characteristics. Misoprostol was associated with a lower success rate (67 vs. 87%, P = .2), a longer induction-delivery interval (22 h vs. 18 h, P = .09), a higher rate of retained placenta requiring curettage (27 vs. 13%, P = .65), and a higher live birth rate (50 vs. 0%, P = .006).


CONCLUSIONS
Compared to a regimen of concentrated oxytocin plus low-dose prostaglandin E2, misoprostol administered as vaginal tablets in a dose of 200 microg q 12 h is not satisfactory for mid-trimester pregnancy termination in an unselected population.
Owen
J
J
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 35233-7333, USA.
Hauth
J C
JC
D000028:Abortion, Induced; D000282:Administration, Intravaginal; D000328:Adult; D015232:Dinoprostone / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D016595:Misoprostol / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D010121:Oxytocin / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D011247:Pregnancy; D011262:Pregnancy Trimester, Second
D016595:Misoprostol; D010121:Oxytocin; D015232:Dinoprostone