Misoprostol Tablets

Misoprostol is a medication that can prevent stomach ulcers if you also take NSAID medications. It reduces the amount of acid in your stomach, which protects your stomach lining. The brand name of this medication is Cytotec®.

What is this medication?

MISOPROSTOL (mye soe PROST ole) prevents stomach ulcers in people who take NSAID medications. It works by reducing the amount of acid in the stomach and protecting the stomach lining.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Cytotec

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What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • Crohn's disease
  • Heart disease
  • Kidney disease
  • Ulcerative colitis
  • An unusual or allergic reaction to misoprostol, prostaglandins, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
  • Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
  • Breast-feeding

How should I use this medication?

Take this medication by mouth with a full glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Take this medication with food. Take your medication at regular intervals. Do not take your medication more often than directed.

Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

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What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medication?

  • Antacids

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

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What should I watch for while using this medication?

Do not smoke cigarettes or drink alcohol. These increase irritation to your stomach and can make it more susceptible to damage from medication like ibuprofen and aspirin.

If you are female, do not use this medication if you are pregnant. Do not get pregnant while taking this medication and for at least one month (one full menstrual cycle) after stopping this medication. If you can become pregnant, use a reliable form of birth control while taking this medication. Talk to your care team about birth control options. If you do become pregnant, think you are pregnant, or want to become pregnant, immediately call your care team for advice.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

  • Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

  • Diarrhea
  • Nausea
  • Stomach cramping
  • Stomach pain

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature below 25 degrees C (77 degrees F). Keep in a dry place. Protect from moisture. Throw away any unused medication after the expiration date.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.

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Note: Introduction and Additional Common Questions written and medically approved by Cleveland Clinic professionals.

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