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

Low dose prostaglandin E₂ (PGE₂) 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 PGE₂. A clinical useful prostaglandin E₂ vaginal gel may be prepared from commercially available reagents under the conditions described.