Vaginal misoprostol is used for cervical ripening and induction at term. Which dosing schedule best matches accepted practice?
- A 100 mcg vaginally every 6 hours
- B 200 mcg orally once daily
- C 25 mcg vaginally every 3 to 6 hours ✓
- D 50 mcg vaginally every hour until contractions begin
Correct answer: C. 25 mcg vaginally every 3 to 6 hours
Explanation
The standard low-dose regimen is 25 mcg of vaginal misoprostol repeated every 3 to 6 hours. Higher doses such as 50 mcg or 100 mcg carry unacceptably increased rates of uterine tachysystole with fetal heart rate changes, which is why low-dose regimens are recommended. Oral and vaginal routes both work, but the dose and interval given in option A exceed safe practice.
Reference: Williams Obstetrics, 26th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.