Indications
- Misoprostol is utilized to prevent stomach ulcers when taking NSAIDs, particularly for those at risk or with a history of ulcers.
- It reduces the risk of serious ulcer complications such as bleeding by protecting the stomach lining.
- This medication decreases acid contact with the stomach lining.
- Additionally, it’s used with mifepristone to terminate pregnancy.
Dosage and administration
- Read the patient information leaflet carefully and ask your healthcare provider any questions about the drug.
- Dosage is determined by your medical condition and response to treatment.
- For stomach ulcer prevention, take orally as directed by your doctor, usually four times daily after meals and at bedtime.
- To minimize diarrhea, take after meals and at bedtime.
- When using it to end a pregnancy, follow your doctor’s instructions precisely.
- If used to start labor, your healthcare provider will administer it vaginally.
- Avoid magnesium-containing antacids while using misoprostol, as they may worsen diarrhea.
- Consult your doctor or pharmacist for antacid alternatives if needed.
- For ulcer prevention, continue treatment as long as you’re taking NSAIDs.
- Take regularly at the same times daily for maximum benefit.
- Inform your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.
Side effects
- Nausea or stomach cramps may occur; inform your doctor or pharmacist if these persist or worsen.
- Diarrhea is common with misoprostol, usually starting about two weeks after beginning treatment and lasting about a week.
- Maintain fluid and electrolyte intake to prevent dehydration.
- Notify your doctor immediately if you experience signs of dehydration, such as dizziness, decreased urination, mood changes, muscle weakness, or irregular heartbeat.
- Contact your doctor promptly if you have serious side effects, including menstrual irregularities or heavy vaginal bleeding.
- Seek medical help immediately if you observe symptoms of a severe allergic reaction, such as rash, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing.
- This list doesn’t encompass all potential side effects; contact your doctor or pharmacist for any concerns.
Precautions
- Inform your doctor or pharmacist of any allergies to misoprostol or other substances.
- Disclose your medical history, particularly stomach/intestinal diseases like inflammatory bowel disease.
- Avoid daily alcohol and tobacco use, as they may increase the risk of stomach bleeding; consult your doctor or pharmacist for guidance.
- If using misoprostol with mifepristone to terminate pregnancy, closely monitor for signs of incomplete abortion and follow doctor’s instructions diligently.
- Expect vaginal bleeding after combined medication; notify your doctor immediately if experiencing severe/prolonged bleeding, signs of infection, or fainting.
- Avoid using this drug during pregnancy to prevent stomach ulcers due to potential harm to the unborn baby.
- Women of childbearing age should use effective contraception while taking misoprostol and for at least one month after stopping.
- Inform your doctor promptly if you become pregnant or suspect pregnancy.
- This medication passes into breast milk but is unlikely to harm a nursing infant; consult your doctor before breastfeeding.