Generic name: misoprostol [ mye-so-PRAH-stole ]
Brand name: Cytotec
Dosage form: oral tablet
Drug class:  Miscellaneous GI agents

What is misoprostol?

Misoprostol reduces stomach acid and helps protect the stomach lining from damage that can be caused by taking  aspirin  or a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID).

Misoprostol is a synthetic prostaglandin that works by “replacing” prostaglandins whose production is blocked by aspirin or NSAIDs. It is used to prevent stomach ulcers from developing during treatment with aspirin or an NSAID. Examples of NSAIDs include  ibuprofen  ( Advil ,  Motrin ),  naproxen  ( Aleve ),  celecoxib ,  diclofenac ,  indomethacin , and  meloxicam .

Misoprostol should not be used during pregnancy and if you are able to become pregnant, you will need to have a negative pregnancy test before starting this treatment.

Misoprostol was FDA approved in 1988.

Warnings

Misoprostol can cause birth defects, premature birth, uterine rupture, miscarriage, or incomplete miscarriage and dangerous  uterine bleeding . Do not use misoprostol if you are pregnant.

If you are able to become pregnant, you will need to have a negative pregnancy test before starting this treatment. You will also need to use effective  birth control  to prevent pregnancy during treatment.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use misoprostol if you are allergic to misoprostol or other prostaglandins, or if you are pregnant.

To make sure misoprostol is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:

• inflammatory bowel disease  ( IBD ),  irritable bowel syndrome  ( IBS ), or other intestinal problems;
• heart disease; or
• if you are dehydrated.

FDA  pregnancy category  X. Misoprostol can cause birth defects, premature birth, uterine rupture, miscarriage, or incomplete miscarriage and dangerous uterine bleeding. Do not use misoprostol if you are pregnant. Use effective birth control to prevent pregnancy while you are using this medicine, and for at least 1 month after your treatment ends.

If you are able to become pregnant, you will need to have a negative pregnancy test before you start taking misoprostol. Treatment with this medicine should begin on the second or third day of your menstrual period.

Stop taking misoprostol and tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant during treatment.

It is not known whether misoprostol passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take misoprostol?

Follow all directions on your misoprostol label. Do not take this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

Do not share misoprostol with another person.

Misoprostol is usually taken with meals and at bedtime. Follow your doctor’s instructions.

You may have  nausea , stomach cramps, or  diarrhea  while taking this medicine, especially during the first few weeks after you start taking misoprostol. These symptoms usually last for about a week.

Call your doctor if you have severe nausea, stomach pain, or diarrhea lasting longer than 8 days.

Read all medication guides or patient instructions provided with misoprostol each time your receive a new supply.

Store misoprostol at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Detailed Misoprostol dosage information

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose of misoprostol as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

What should I avoid while taking misoprostol?

Ask your doctor before using an antacid, and use only the type your doctor recommends. Some  antacids  can increase your risk of diarrhea while you are taking misoprostol.

Misoprostol side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction to misoprostol:  hives ; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Misoprostol may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor at once if you have:

• severe ongoing stomach discomfort or diarrhea; or
• dehydration  symptoms–feeling very thirsty or hot, being unable to urinate, heavy sweating, or hot and  dry skin .

Common side effects of misoprostol may include:

• diarrhea;
• stomach pain, nausea,  upset stomach , gas;
• vaginal bleeding  or spotting, heavy menstrual flow; or
• menstrual cramps.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Misoprostol side effects  (more detail)

What other drugs will affect misoprostol?

Other drugs may interact with misoprostol, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines,  vitamins , and  herbal products . Tell each of your health care providers about all medicines you use now and any medicine you start or stop using.

source :: https://www.drugs.com/misoprostol.html