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Misoprostol |
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What is Misoprostol and why is it prescribed? Misoprostol, a synthetic prostaglandin, reduces the production of stomach acid and protects the stomach lining. People who take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be given Misoprostol tablets to help prevent stomach ulcers. If you must take an NSAID for a prolonged period of time, and if you are elderly or have ever had a stomach ulcer, your doctor may want you to take Misoprostol for as long as you take the NSAID. You must not become pregnant while using Misoprostol. Misoprostol causes uterine contractions that could lead to a miscarriage. If you do have a miscarriage, there is a risk that it might be incomplete. This could lead to bleeding, hospitalization, surgery, infertility, or even death. It is vitally important to use reliable contraception while taking Misoprostol. How should you take Misoprostol? Follow your doctors directions for taking Misoprostol. Take Misoprostol with meals, exactly as prescribed. Take Misoprostol for the full course of NSAID treatment, even if you notice no stomach problems. Take the final dosage at bedtime. If you miss a dose take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once. Store Misoprostol at room temperature in a dry place. Are there any Misoprostol side effects? Misoprostol side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Misoprostol may cause abdominal cramps, diarrhea, and/or nausea, especially during the first few weeks of treatment. These symptoms may disappear as your body gets used to the drug. Taking Misoprostol with food can help minimize diarrhea. If you have prolonged difficulty (more than 8 days), or if you have severe diarrhea, cramping, or nausea, call your doctor. Other Misoprostol side effects may include constipation, gas, indigestion, headache, heavy menstrual bleeding, menstrual disorder, menstrual pain or cramps, paleness, spotting, stomach or intestinal bleeding, and vomiting. Misoprostol may cause uterine bleeding even if you have gone through menopause. However, postmenopausal bleeding could be a sign of some other gynecological problem. If you experience any such bleeding while taking Misoprostol, notify your doctor at once. What are the possible food and drug interactions when taking Misoprostol? If Misoprostol is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. Be sure to inform your doctor of all the prescription and over the counter medications you are taking. Misoprostol does not interfere with arthritis medications such as aspirin and ibuprofen. Are there any special warnings about Misoprostol? Since Misoprostol may cause diarrhea, you should use this drug very cautiously if you have inflammatory bowel disease or any other condition in which the loss of fluid caused by diarrhea would be particularly dangerous. To reduce the risk of diarrhea, take Misoprostol with food and avoid taking it with a magnesium-containing antacid, such as Di-Gel, Gelusil, Maalox, Mylanta, and others. Have frequent medical checkups. Never give Misoprostol to anyone else. The dosage might be wrong, and if the other person is pregnant, the drug might harm the unborn baby or cause a miscarriage. |
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Information on this website is provided for educational purposes and should not replace discussions with your doctor. |
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