GENERIC NAME: misoprostol
BRAND NAME: Cytotec
DRUG CLASS AND MECHANISM: Misoprostol is a synthetic
prostaglandin. Prostaglandins are natural substances found in
the stomach
as well as in other organs of the human body. In the stomach,
prostaglandins are believed to protect the inner stomach lining
from the
ulcer producing effects of acid, aspirin, and other nonsteroidal
anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), commonly used in the
treatment of
arthritis and other inflammatory conditions. Scientists now
believe that
aspirin and NSAIDs produce stomach ulceration mostly by
inhibiting the
production of prostaglandins in the stomach. Synthetic
prostaglandin such
as misoprostol given orally has been shown to protect the
stomach lining
from ulcerating effects of NSAIDs.
PRESCRIPTION: yes
GENERIC AVAILABLE: yes
PREPARATIONS: tablets: 100 mcg, 200 mcg.
STORAGE: Tablets should be kept in dry area, with
temperature
below 86 degrees F
(30 degrees C).
PRESCRIBED FOR: Misoprostol (Cytotec) is prescribed for
the
prevention of stomach ulceration and related ulcer
complications (such as
ulcer bleeding, obstruction, and perforation) in patients on
aspirin and
other NSAIDs medications. It is especially considered for
patients who are
at high risk of developing stomach ulcers and their
complications while
taking NSAIDs. These include elderly patients, patients with
other
debilitating illnesses (such as heart failure), patients with
prior
history of ulcer disease and bleeding.
DOSING: Cytotec is usually administered four times
daily with
food.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Misoprostol (Cytotec) should not be
used in
women of child bearing potential unless the patient requires
NSAIDs
therapy and is at high risk of developing stomach ulcers and
ulcer
complications.
PREGNANCY: Misoprostol (Cytotec) is not to be used by
pregnant
women because misoprostol may cause miscarriage.
NURSING MOTHERS: Misoprostol (Cytotec) is avoided in
nursing
mothers because of concern over causing diarrhea in the
baby.
SIDE EFFECTS: Common side effects include diarrhea and
abdominal
pain. Diarrhea is more common with higher doses of the
medication used,
and usually goes away with continued administration. Rarely,
profound and
persistent diarrhea necessitates stopping the medication. Less
common side
effects include headache, menstrual cramps, nausea, flatulence.
Last Editorial Review: 12/31/1997
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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