Generic
Misoprostol
19 brands available in the market
At a glance
Misoprostol is a medicine used for medical abortion and prevention of postpartum hemorrhage.
Description
Misoprostol is a synthetic prostaglandin E1 analogue that causes uterine contractions for abortion and prevents postpartum hemorrhage.
Indications
- Medical abortion
- Prevention and treatment of postpartum hemorrhage
- Induction of labor
- NSAID-induced gastric and duodenal ulcers
Therapeutic class
Drugs acting on the Uterus and Prostaglandin analogues
Pharmacological class
Prostaglandin E1 Analogue
Pharmacology
Misoprostol is a synthetic prostaglandin E1 analogue that binds to prostaglandin receptors causing uterine smooth muscle contraction.
Mechanism of action
Causes uterine contractions for abortion and prevents postpartum hemorrhage.
Dosage
Adult Dose:
- Abortion: 800 mcg buccally 24-48 hours after 200 mg Mifepristone
- Postpartum hemorrhage prevention: 600 mcg orally immediately after delivery
- Induction of labor: 25 mcg vaginally (every 6 hours)
- NSAID-induced ulcer: 200 mcg 2-4 times daily
Administration
- Take with food
- Swallow tablet whole
- Take under physician supervision
Missed dose
If you miss a dose abortion may not be fully effective. Consult your doctor.
Side effects
Common Side Effects:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Uterine contractions and cramping
- Diarrhea
- Vaginal bleeding
- Abdominal pain
Precautions & warnings
- Caution while driving
- Contraindicated in pregnancy
- Caution during lactation
- Do not use if history of prostaglandin allergy
Contraindications
- History of allergy to prostaglandins
- Pregnancy
- Lactation
Drug interactions
- Oxytocin: Increased effects
- Magnesium-containing antacids: Increased risk of diarrhea
Food interactions
Caution advised when consuming alcohol with Misoprostol.
Use in pregnancy
Use in Pregnancy: Highly unsafe. Contraindicated during pregnancy.
Pregnancy Category: X — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Use in lactation
Use in Lactation: Use with caution. Breastfeeding should be held until treatment is completed.
Pediatric use
Safety and efficacy not established in children under 18 years.
Geriatric use
No specific dose adjustment for elderly.
Renal / hepatic impairment
Renal Impairment: Safe - no dose adjustment required.
Hepatic Impairment: Probably safe - dose adjustment may not be needed.
Overdose effects
Overdose may cause sedation tremor convulsions dyspnea abdominal pain diarrhea fever.
Storage conditions
Store in a cool and dry place protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Chemical structure
Misoprostol