A safety review of medications used for labour induction.

INTRODUCTION: Induction of labour is a commonly performed procedure around the world. There are various medications used for induction including those commonly used for cervical ripening (prostaglandins) and oxytocin. The ideal agent is one that decreases the time to achieving delivery without compromising maternal or neonatal safety. The 'optimal safe agent' remains undetermined. AREAS COVERED: This article reviews the safety of currently used induction agents. Prostaglandins and oxytocin have proven to be effective in labour induction, and their profiles will be reviewed in this article. We discuss the data that supports combining some of the agents. We also cover the safety of medications used for labour induction in setting of a scarred uterus. EXPERT OPINION: There is continuous debate about the ideal induction agent: one that balances safety with efficacy. We recommend the practice that there is not one perfect agent for all, and that the clinical scenario and previous obstetric history should be considered before choosing an agent. In the future, pharmacogenomics may show that genetics may affect the individual response and adverse reactions to the various agents.