In December 2001, Tatia Oden French entered the hospital to get induced because she was overdue. Neither she nor her baby ever left. Sadly, they lost their lives after a Cytotec induction.
In Tatia’s case, this controversial drug caused uterine hyperstimulation and an amniotic fluid embolism (AFE). Their trauma was so severe that both Tatia and her baby died as doctors tried to perform an emergency C-section.
A foundation established in Tatia’s honor now seeks to inform as many women as possible about Cytotec induction risks. Have you heard of this drug and its off-label use for inducing labor? We’ll tell you all about it below.
What is Cytotec?
Cytotec is a brand name for a medication called misoprostol. Misoprostol is the hormone prostaglandin in synthetic form.
Cytotec was originally developed for the prevention and treatment of stomach ulcers, especially for people who take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen. But since it also softens the cervix and causes contractions to start, doctors sometimes prescribe it to induce labor.
Is Cytotec Safe for Inductions?
There’s a lot of debate on whether Cytotec inductions are safe or not. The reason for this is the fact that it can produce very dangerous side effects.
Cytotec side effects are so worrisome, the FDA hasn’t approved the drug for inducing labor. In addition, even Cytotec’s manufacturer has issued warnings against using it for inductions.
So why do some healthcare professionals still use it to get labor going? Well, many doctors believe its benefits outweigh the risks. Some even believe it’s one of the best drugs for induction because it:
- Costs much less than other induction medications, like Pitocin and Prepidil
- May prevent ulcers and postpartum hemorrhage (excessive bleeding after childbirth)
- Is used for miscarriage management to help expel the remaining tissue
- It can reduce the need for surgical intervention
- Is widely available, making it more accessible in remote areas
But there are two sides to every coin, of course. So let’s take a look at what the “other side” of this debate has to say, and discuss Cytotec induction risks.
Cytotec Induction Risks
First of all, doctors should administer Cytotec only if inducing labor is medically necessary. To mitigate the risks associated with it, they should administer it at low doses and monitor contractions closely.
Potential Cytotec induction risks include:
Uterine Hyperstimulation
Misoprostol can cause excessive uterine contractions. These contractions can overstimulate the uterus. This can be dangerous for both the mother and the baby because it can reduce oxygen and blood flow to the fetus. Hyperstimulation can also cause amniotic fluid embolism (AFE), a catastrophic complication.
Uterine Rupture
Uterine rupture is a tear resulting from too much pressure. While rare, it’s a major medical emergency. A rupture can cause severe bleeding in mothers. It can also deprive babies of oxygen, which can lead to brain damage and death.
Fetal Distress
Uterine hyperstimulation can cause fetal distress. This happens when the baby’s heart rate is abnormal due to a lack of oxygen or nutrients during labor. Misoprostol can cause uterine hyperstimulation, which can potentially lead to decreased blood flow to the placenta. Less blood flow = less oxygen, which causes fetal distress.
Infection
Cytotec can potentially increase the risk of infection, especially if administered vaginally (as it often is). This can introduce bacteria into the vagina and cervix, which increases the risk of infection. If the amniotic sac has already ruptured, the risk is even greater.
Failed Induction
A Cytotec induction may not be successful, requiring a C-section. This can happen if the cervix doesn’t respond to the medication or if the baby isn’t in the correct position for delivery.
Cytotec Side Effects
Cytotec can cause side effects ranging from uncomfortable to life-threatening. No one can predict how a woman might react to this medication. That’s part of the reason why Cytotec inductions are risky.
Cytotec side effects may include, but aren’t limited to:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Pelvic pain
- Headache
- Chills and fever
- Shock
- Bleeding
- Meconium passage
- Abnormal heart rate
- Allergic reactions
- Nausea
- Abdominal cramps
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Uterine contractions
- Uterine rupture
- Uterine hyperstimulation
- Back pain
- Chest pain
Cytotec and Birth Injuries
Babies can sustain birth injuries as a result of cytotec side effects and complications. Emergencies like uterine rupture and uterine hyperstimulation can cause oxygen deprivation and loss of life.
If a baby doesn’t get enough oxygen for even a short period, brain damage can occur, leading to disorders such as:
- Cerebral palsy
- Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy (HIE)
- Seizures
- Periventricular leukomalacia (PVL)
- Developmental and learning disabilities
- Brain injury
- Vision impairment
- Speech delays
- Motor impairments
- Intellectual disability
- Hearing Loss
- Behavioral Disorders
- Feeding Difficulties
Has your doctor mentioned using Cytotec to induce labor? If so, be sure to ask them about Cytotec induction risks.
Legal Help for Cytotec Induction Errors
Failing to monitor a Cytotec induction, administering an improper dosage, or mishandling cytotec side effects can constitute medical negligence.
If this negligence results in permanent injury to a mother or child, it may warrant a malpractice lawsuit. This type of lawsuit can help patients’ families pay for the lifelong treatment their loved ones will need.
Were you or your child harmed during a Cytotec induction? You may be entitled to compensation. We’re experts in birth injury cases, including those involving inductions. Give us a call to find out what your legal options are.