My doctor says it forces your body into quick labor, rather than you working up to labor so he says it's not more painful, you're just not as ready.
Being induced now so I'll let ya know. ;)
I'm a ftm, so can't compare if it's more painful, but it sure was painful. I was induced Monday 16th, pessary first - I was super sensitive to it getting almost constant strong contractions after 18hrs, but had still only dilated to 3cm (was at 2cm when pessary inserted). Started syntocinon drip Tues at 17:30 but was super sensitive to that too. so very painful for me & didn't actually get regular effective contractions either. Not complaining as I have my beautiful daughter at the end of it. I hope you have a much better experience. Good luck.