Misoprostol vs. Oxytocin For Postpartum Bleeding

Major Finding: Oral misoprostol may be an alternative to intravenous oxytocin for controlling postpartum hemorrhage.

Data Source: Efficacy of oral misoprostol as an alternative to intravenous oxytocin was studied in 978 women in four hospitals in one trial, and in another 809 women who had received prophylactic oxytocin during the third stage of labor in five hospitals in a second trial.

Disclosures: Both studies were funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. Dr. Winikoff and Ms. Blum said they had no financial conflicts to disclose.