Comparison of 50 μg Oral and Vaginal Misoprostol Tablets in Induction of Labor at Term

Abstract

Objective: To compare efficacy and safety of 50 µg misoprostol administered vaginally, with oral route for induction of labor at term. Materials and methods:One hundred women at term gestation, Bishop score ≤ 4, with various indications for labor induction were randomized. Fifty women received 50 µg misoprostol orally and 50 women received 50 µg vaginally, fourth hourly (maximum six doses) or till the women went into active labor. Results:In vaginal misoprostol group, induction delivery interval was significantly less (8.70 vs 17.47 hours) and successful induction was significantly higher (70 vs 60%) than oral group, within 24 hours of induction. In vaginal group, 46% women needed two doses for delivery compared with 8% in oral group. A maximum of six doses were required. Conclusion:Vaginal route of misoprostol is more effective in inducing labor than oral administration.