Where is Misoprostol used?

Misoprostol is used in people with stomach ulcers while taking NSAIDs. This is used especially if you are at risk of developing ulcers or have a history of ulcers. This medication helps to decrease your risk of serious ulcer complications such as bleeding. This will also protect your stomach lining by lowering the amount of acid that comes in contact with it. Misoprostol may also be used in combination with another drug (mifepristone) to end a pregnancy or called abortion.

Misoprostol is a synthetic or man-made prostaglandin E analog. Each tablet has 100 mcg or 200 mcg of misoprostol for oral administration. This medication was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1988.

How does Misoprostol work?

Misoprostol is extensively absorbed and undergoes rapid desertification to its free acid. In which it is responsible for its clinical activity and unlike the parent compound, is detectable in plasma. The alpha side chain undergoes beta-oxidation and the beta side chain undergoes omega-oxidation. It is followed by a reduction of the ketone to give prostaglandin E analogs. Prostaglandins are chemicals that are made within many organs of the body including the stomach. In the stomach, prostaglandins are believed to protect the inner lining of the stomach from the ulcer-producing effects of NSAIDs. 

How is Misoprostol taken?

The dosage and dosing schedule are based on your condition and response.

• If you are taking this for stomach ulcers, take it by mouth usually four times a day. It is to be taken after meals and at bedtime to minimize diarrhea.
• If you are taking this medication for abortion, take it by mouth or exactly as directed by your doctor.

Follow your doctor’s prescription very carefully. Use this regularly in order to get the most benefit from it.  Avoid taking antacids that have magnesium while using this medicine because they may make diarrhea it causes worse. If you need an antacid, consult your doctor to help you choose a product. Inform your doctor if your condition persists or worsens. If you missed a dose, call your doctor for instructions do not take two doses to make up for the missed dose.

What are the possible side effects of Misoprostol?

• Gas
• Nausea
• Constipation
• Stomach cramps
• Diarrhea
• Headache
• Vomiting
• Spotting

Call your doctor right away if these happen:

• Severe on-going stomach discomfort or diarrhea
• Dehydration symptoms (feeling very thirsty or hot, hot and dry skin, heavy sweating, being unable to urinate)

What are the precautions in taking Misoprostol?

• Let your doctor know if you have any medical history or current treatments and medications including vitamins, herbal products, and food supplements.
• Do not share this drugs or any of your medications with others.
• Daily use of tobacco and alcohol may increase your risk for stomach bleeding. Stop smoking and limit alcoholic beverages. Consult your doctor for advice.
• This is not prescribed during pregnancy. If you are breastfeeding women, consult your doctor first. Call your doctor right away if you get pregnant while taking this medication.
• Keep this medication away from the reach of children.