Are there problems associated with the use of Pitocin?
FDA Alert on Cytotec On May 16, 2005, the FDA issued an FDA Alert on the risk of Cytotec (Misoprostol) when used in labor and delivery, which states: “This Patient Information Sheet is for pregnant women who may receive Misoprostol to soften their cervix or induce contractions to begin labor. Misoprostol is sometimes used to decrease blood loss after delivery of a baby. The FDA does not approve these uses. No company has sent the FDA scientific proof that Misoprostol is safe and effective for these uses. “There can be rare but serious side effects, including a torn uterus (womb), when Misoprostol is used for labor and delivery. A torn uterus may result in severe bleeding, having the uterus removed (hysterectomy), and death of the mother or baby. These side effects are more likely in women who have had previous uterine surgery, a previous Cesarean delivery (C-section), or several previous births.” The FDA Alert makes it clear that 1) Cytotec should not be used for labor induction 2) BUT
