Brand name Cytotec
Used in the following combined preparations Arthrotec, Napratec
GENERAL INFORMATION
Misoprostol reduces the amount of acid secreted in the stomach and promotes healing of gastric and duodenal ulcers. The drug is related to naturally occurring chemicals called prostaglandins. Gastric and duodenal ulcers may be caused by aspirin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs that block certain prostaglandins, and misoprostol can be used to prevent or cure these ulcers. The ulcers usually heal after a few weeks’ treatment with misoprostol.
In some cases, misoprostol is given during treatment with these drugs as a preventative measure and combined preparations are available that reduce the likelihood of ulcers occurring. The most likely adverse effects are diarrhoea and indigestion; if they are severe it may be necessary to stop treatment with the drug. Diarrhoea can be made worse by antacids containg magnesium; these should therefore be avoided.
QUICK REFERENCE
Drug group Anti-ulcer drug
Overdose danger rating Low
Dependence rating Low
Prescription needed Yes
Available as generic No
INFORMATION FOR USERS
Your drug prescription is tailored for you. Do not alter dosage without checking with your doctor.
How taken
Tablets.
Frequency and timing of doses
2-4 x daily.
Adult dosage range
400-800mcg daily.
Onset of effect
Within 24 hours.
Duration of action
Up to 24 hours; some effects may be longer lasting.
Diet advice
None.
Storage
Keep in a closed container in a cool, dry place out of the reach of children.
Missed dose
Take as soon as you remember. If your next dose is due within 3 hours, take a single dose now and skip the next.
Stopping the drug
Do not stop the drug without consulting your doctor; symptoms may recur.
Exceeding the dose
An occasional unintentional extra dose is unlikely to be a cause for concern. But if you notice any unusual symptoms, or if a large overdose has been taken, notify your doctor.
POSSIBLE ADVERSE EFFECTS
Adverse effects on the gastrointestinal tract can occur. These effects may be reduced by spreading the doses out during the day. Taking the drug with food may be recommended.
| Symptom/effect |
Frequency
Common |
Rare |
Discus, doctor
Only if severe |
with
In all cases |
Stop taking drug now |
Call
doctor
now |
| Diarrhoea |
• |
|
■ |
|
|
|
| Abdominal pain |
|
• |
|
■ |
|
|
| Nausea/vomiting |
|
• |
■ |
|
|
|
| Indigestion |
• |
|
■ |
|
|
|
| Vaginal/intermenstrual bleeding |
|
• |
|
■ |
|
|
| Skin rashes |
|
• |
|
■ |
■ |
|
INTERACTIONS
Magnesium-containing antacids These may increase the severity of any diarrhoea caused by misoprostol.
SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS
Be sure to tell your doctor if:
▼ You are pregnant, or intending to become pregnant.
▼ You have had a stroke.
▼ You have heart or circulation problems.
▼ You have high blood pressure.
▼ You have bowel problems.
▼ You are taking other medications.
Pregnancy
▼ Misprostol should not be taken during pregnancy since it can cause the uterus to contract before the baby is due.
Breast-feeding
▼ Safety not established. Discuss with your doctor.
Infants and children
▼ Not recommended.
Over 60
▼ No special problems.
Driving and hazardous work
▼ No problems expected.
Alcohol
▼ No problems expected, but excessive amounts may undermine the desired effect of the drug.
PROLONGED USE
No problems expected.
