Uses
What is misoprostol used for?
Misoprostol is commonly used to reduce the risk of stomach ulcers caused by nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, naproxen, and others.
Misoprostol may also be used for other conditions as determined by your healthcare provider.
How does misoprostol work (mechanism of action)?
Misoprostol prevents stomach ulcers by reducing stomach acid and increasing the protective mucus lining in your stomach.
How is misoprostol supplied (dosage forms)?
Misoprostol is available as Cytotec and generic misoprostol in the following dosage forms that are taken by mouth.
- 100 mcg oral tablets
- 200 mcg oral tablets
How should I store misoprostol?
Misoprostol should be stored at or below 77 F (25 C). Store in a cool, dry place.
Side Effects
What are the most common side effects of misoprostol?
The most common side effects of misoprostol are listed below. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any of these side effects that bother you.
- Diarrhea
- Stomach pain or cramps
- Nausea
There may be other side effects of misoprostol that are not listed here. Contact your healthcare provider if you think you are having a side effect of a medicine. In the U.S., you can report side effects to the FDA at www.fda.gov/medwatch or by calling 800-FDA-1088. In Canada, you can report side effects to Health Canada at www.health.gc.ca/medeffect or by calling 866-234-2345.
What are the serious side effects of misoprostol?
While less common, the most serious side effects of misoprostol are described below, along with what to do if they happen.
Severe Allergic Reactions. Misoprostol may cause allergic reactions, which can be serious. Stop taking misoprostol and get help right away if you have any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction.
- Breathing problems or wheezing
- Racing heart
- Fever or general ill feeling
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Swelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue, or throat
- Trouble swallowing or throat tightness
- Itching, skin rash, or pale red bumps on the skin called hives
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness, feeling lightheaded, or fainting
- Stomach cramps
- Joint pain
Warnings & Precautions
Who should not use misoprostol?
Allergies to Ingredients. People who are allergic to any of the following should not take misoprostol.
- Misoprostol
- Cytotec
- Any other medicine known as a prostaglandin
- Any of the ingredients in the specific product dispensed
Your pharmacist can tell you all of the ingredients in the specific misoprostol products they stock.
Pregnancy. Do not take misoprostol to prevent stomach ulcers if you are pregnant. If you become pregnant, contact your healthcare provider right away. See the Pregnancy section for more details.
What should I know about misoprostol before using it?
Do not take misoprostol unless it has been prescribed to you by a healthcare provider. Take it as prescribed.
Do not share misoprostol with other people, even if they have the same condition as you. It may harm them.
Keep misoprostol out of the reach of children.
Misoprostol may cause certain side effects that usually start within the first few weeks of treatment, such as diarrhea, stomach cramps, and nausea. It is important to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids if you have these symptoms. In most people, these side effects get better on their own within about a week. If you have these side effects and they last longer than 8 days, or if you have severe diarrhea, stomach cramps, or nausea, call your healthcare provider.
To minimize your risk of getting diarrhea, take misoprostol with meals and at bedtime.
Misoprostol may cause menstrual problems. Tell your healthcare provider if you have menstrual spotting, menstrual cramps, or heavy or painful periods.
What should I tell my healthcare provider before using misoprostol?
Tell your healthcare provider about all of your health conditions and any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. This will help them determine if misoprostol is right for you.
In particular, make sure that you discuss any of the following.
Current and Past Health Conditions. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any of the following.
- Heart problems
- Inflammatory bowel disease, such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis
- A past cesarean section (C-section) or other surgery on your uterus
Other Medicines and Supplements. Misoprostol may interact with other medicines and supplements. Before taking misoprostol, tell your healthcare provider about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. See the Interactions section for more details.
Pregnancy. Misoprostol may cause harm to an unborn baby. If you can become pregnant, you need a negative pregnancy test before you start this medicine. If you can become pregnant, use effective birth control while you are taking misoprostol and for at least 1 month after stopping the medicine. Talk with your healthcare provider about the best birth control for you. Tell your healthcare provider if you are or plan to become pregnant. If you become pregnant, stop taking misoprostol and contact your healthcare provider right away.
Breastfeeding. Misoprostol passes into breast milk. Tell your healthcare provider if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. Your healthcare provider will advise you if you should take misoprostol while breastfeeding.
Interactions
Does misoprostol interact with foods or drinks?
There are no known interactions between misoprostol and foods or drinks.
Drinking alcohol while taking misoprostol increases your risk for stomach ulcers and bleeding. It is best to limit the amount of alcohol you drink.
Does misoprostol interact with other medicines (drug interactions)?
Always tell your healthcare provider about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using.
In particular, make sure that you discuss if you are taking an antacid containing magnesium.
This may not be a complete list of medicines that can interact with misoprostol. Always check with your healthcare provider.
Overdose/Missed Dose
What should I do if I accidentally use too much misoprostol?
If you or someone else has used too much misoprostol, get medical help right away, call 911, or contact a Poison Control center at 800-222-1222.
What should I do if I miss a dose of misoprostol?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and only take the next dose. Do not take double or extra doses.
Are you currently using Misoprostol (Cytotec)?
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