Drug reference

Gemeprost

Vasodilator · Abortifacient

Also known as CERVAGEM

VasodilatorAbortifacient

CDSCO approvedSchedule H

EXCRETION

—

not curated

INTERACTIONS

—

none in our sources

PREGNANCY

Used for termination of pregnancy.

FDA category + note

Mechanism

Gemeprost is a prostaglandin that induces uterine contractions, facilitating the medical induction of abortion. It also ripens and softens the cervix, which helps in preparing for surgical abortion and expulsion of the detached blastocyst.

Indications

Medical induction of late therapeutic abortionRipen the cervix before surgical abortion, particularly in primigravidasSoftening of cervix in first trimester before attempting dilatationSecond trimester abortionMolar gestationSoftening of cervix in first trimester

Dosing

Adult: For softening of cervix in first trimester: 1 mg vaginally 3 hours before attempting dilatation. For 2nd trimester abortion/molar gestation: 1 mg vaginally every 3 hours.
Max dose: 5 mg (for 2nd trimester abortion/molar gestation)

Side effects

Common

NauseaVomitingWatery diarrhoeaUterine crampsUnduly forceful uterine contractionsVaginal bleedingFlushingShiveringFeverMalaiseFall in BPTachycardiaChest painAbdominal pain

Serious