Preparation of prostaglandin E2 vaginal gel for preinduction ripening of the cervix

Abstract Low dose prostaglandin E 2 (PGE 2 ) vaginal gel has been shown to be an effective method for preinduction ripening of the cervix. A method for preparation of this gel from commercially available reagents is described. A twenty milligram PGE2 vaginal suppository ( Prostin , Upjohn) is added to 100 cc's of hydroxyethyl cellulose gel ( K-Y) Jelly , Johnson and Johnson), heated to 85°C. Samples of this preparation were stored at a 4° Centigrade (C) or 28° C for one, six, or twenty-four hours. After storage, analysis by radioimmunoassay demonstrated there was no appreciable decrease in concentration of PGE 2 . A clinical useful prostaglandin E 2 vaginal gel may be prepared from commercially available reagents under the conditions described.