Brand Name(s): Cytotec
Generic Name Misoprostol
What are misoprostol tablets?
MISOPROSTOL (Cytotec®) helps to prevent stomach ulcers in patients using nonsteroidal antiinflammatory
drugs (NSAIDS, drugs commonly used for arthritis, inflammation, and pain). Misoprostol reduces the amount of
acid produced in the stomach and protects the stomach lining from the effects of acid. Misoprostol is also
sometimes used for other purposes in females. Generic misoprostol tablets are available.
What should my health care professional know before I take misoprostol?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
•heart disease
•inflammatory disease of the intestine, like Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis
•kidney disease
•ulcerative colitis
•an unusual or allergic reaction to misoprostol, prostaglandins, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
•pregnant or trying to get pregnant
•breast-feeding
How should I take this medicine?
Take misoprostol tablets by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Swallow the tablets with a
drink of water. Take your doses at regular intervals; this medication is usually taken with meals and at bedtime
with food. Taking this medication with food reduces the chance of diarrhea or stomach upset. Do not take your
medicine more often than directed.
What drug(s) may interact with misoprostol?
•antacids
•cyclosporine
What side effects may I notice from taking misoprostol?
Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:
•chest pain
•dehydration
•lightheadedness or fainting spells
•severe diarrhea
•sudden shortness of breath
•unusual vaginal bleeding, pelvic pain or cramping (females)
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if
they continue or are bothersome):
•diarrhea (mild)
•dizziness
•headache
•menstrual irregularity, spotting, or cramps
•nausea
•stomach upset or cramps
What should I watch for while taking misoprostol?You can take antacids for the occasional relief of pain
unless your prescriber or health care professional tells you otherwise.
If you are female, You should not use this drug to prevent stomach ulcers if you are pregnant. Females should
avoid pregnancy while taking this medication and for at least one month (one full menstrual cycle) after
discontinuing this medication. Misoprostol can cause contractions of the uterus that may cause abortion or the
medication may harm an unborn baby.