Indications
Cytotec (active ingredient: misoprostol) is a prescription medication indicated for the following:
- Prevention of Gastric Ulcers: Cytotec is used for the prevention of gastric ulcers induced by nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), including aspirin, in patients at high risk for ulceration.
- Treatment of Duodenal Ulcers: It is also indicated for the treatment of duodenal ulcers, including those induced by NSAIDs, in patients at high risk for complications.
- Induction of Labor: Cytotec is used for cervical ripening and induction of labor in pregnant women at term.
Cytotec belongs to a class of drugs known as prostaglandins, which work by protecting the stomach lining, promoting mucus secretion, and increasing the production of bicarbonate and blood flow in the gastrointestinal tract, thereby reducing the risk of ulcer formation and facilitating cervical ripening and uterine contractions during labor.
Uses and Dosage
Misoprostol tablets can be used either vaginally or sublingually (under the tongue). You and your doctor will discuss the best option for you. If you choose to use Misoprostol vaginally, the tablets should be placed deep into the vagina two hours before your planned admission time. If you choose to use Misoprostol sublingually, two tablets should be placed between the gum and cheek on each side of the mouth. Follow your doctor's instructions and read the medication guide to ensure proper usage of Misoprostol.
The recommended dose of Misoprostol for reducing the risk of NSAID-induced gastric ulcers is 200 mcg four times daily with food. If this dose cannot be tolerated, a dose of 100 mcg can be used. Cytotec should be taken for the duration of NSAID therapy as prescribed by the physician.
- For missed abortion, a single dose of 800 micrograms of misoprostol by vaginal or oral route is recommended by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE).
- For pregnancy termination, the dosage guidelines vary depending on the duration of the pregnancy, with 400 mcg administered vaginally, sublingually, or buccally every three hours until fetal and placental expulsion.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Misoprostol:
- Diarrhea
- Gas
- Heavy menstrual flow
- Menstrual cramps
- Nausea
- Stomach pain
- Upset stomach
- Vaginal bleeding or spotting
Serious Side Effects of Misoprostol:
- Feeling very thirsty or hot
- Heavy sweating
- Hot and dry skin
- Severe ongoing stomach discomfort or diarrhea
- Unable to urinate
Form and Strength
Cytotec (Misoprostol) is available in the following forms and strengths:
Cytotec: Tablet
- 200 mcg
Misoprostol: Tablet
- 100 mcg
- 200 mcg
Caution
- Caution should be employed when administering Cytotec (misoprostol) to patients with pre-existing cardiovascular disease. This is because the drug may increase the risk of heart-related side effects, such as heart attack, stroke, and irregular heartbeats.
- Women of childbearing potential who are using Cytotec to decrease the risk of NSAID-induced ulcers should be made aware that they must not be pregnant when they start taking Cytotec, and that they must use an effective contraception method while taking it.
- You should not take Cytotec if you are allergic to any of its ingredients in the leaflet. Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include hives, difficulty breathing, and swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat. If you experience any of these symptoms, you should stop taking Cytotec and seek immediate medical attention.
- If you think you may be pregnant or if you intend to become pregnant, tell your doctor before taking CYTOTEC. If you become pregnant while taking CYTOTEC, tell your doctor right away as CYTOTEC can cause harm to a developing baby. Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant should not handle CYTOTEC tablets.
- Misoprostol can help reduce the risk of stomach bleeding caused by daily use of alcohol and tobacco. Avoid alcohol, stop smoking, and consult your doctor or pharmacist for further advice and information about Misoprostol.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What happens if you take misoprostol in early pregnancy?
Misoprostol administration in pregnancy induces cervical softening and dilation and uterine contractions at all gestational ages, thereby facilitating uterine evacuation.
How far should you insert misoprostol?
The most ideal place is to push the tablets behind the cervix at the top of the vagina. If you push them as high in the vagina as you can, they are expected to work. Some women will place all 4 tablets at once.
Which way is more effective misoprostol?
Administration of misoprostol by the sublingual route is better than the oral and vaginal routes for cervical ripening.
What happens if you take misoprostol in early pregnancy?
Misoprostol administration in pregnancy induces cervical softening and dilation and uterine contractions at all gestational ages, thereby facilitating uterine evacuation.
Resources
- https://www.rxlist.com/cytotec-drug.htm
- https://www.news-medical.net/drugs/Cytotec.aspx
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-1786/cytotec-oral/details
- https://www.pfizermedicalinformation.com/en-us/cytotec/dosage-admin
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5431938/
- https://www.ipas.org/clinical-update/english/recommendations-for-abortion-at-or-after-13-weeks-gestation/medical-abortion/misoprostol-only-recommended-regimen/
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