Influence of vehicle form on efficiency of prostaglandin E2 gel for cervical ripening.

A double-blind randomized controlled trial compared the efficiency of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) gel in two different vehicle forms, one solid and the other more liquid, with respect to inducing labour in women with highly unfavourable cervical states. 43 received 0.5 mg PGE2 in a solid gel (Cerviprost) and 37 received 0.5 mg PGE2 in a more liquid cellulose-gel. After one application 18 (42%) and 9 (24%), respectively, went into labour (OR 2.8; 95% confidence interval: 0.8-6.0). After two applications of the gel 91 and 76%, respectively, were in active labour or had amniotomy performed as the cervical state had improved (OR 2.9; 95% confidence interval: 0.8-10.3). It is concluded that the solid gel was more efficient and safe than the more liquid gel.