Cytotec

Generic Name: Misoprostol
US Brand Name: Cytotec
Other Brand/Trade Names: Misoprostol is marketed under many trade names around the world, including: Cityl, Cyprostol, Cytolog, Misodex, Misoprostol

Uses

Misoprostol is taken to prevent stomach ulcers in patients taking anti-inflammatory drugs, including aspirin. Misoprostol helps the stomach protect itself against acid damage. It also decreases the amount of acid produced by the stomach.

Active Ingredients: Misoprostol
Inactive Ingredients: Hydrogenated castor oil, hypromellose, microcrystalline cellulose, and sodium starch glycolate.

Dosage and Forms

Misoprostol is available in form of tablets. The recommended adult oral 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. Misoprostol should be taken for the duration of NSAID therapy as prescribed by the physician. Misoprostol should be taken with a meal, and the last dose of the day should be at bedtime.
The symptoms of a Misoprostol overdose are not well known but might include stomach upset, stomach pain, diarrhea, drowsiness, tremor, seizures, difficulty breathing, fever, low blood pressure, and an irregular heart beat.

Contraindications and Precautions

Misoprostol should not be used by:

• pregnant women
• anyone allergic to Misoprostol or to any of the ingredients of the medication

Side Effects

Misoprostol may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe: diarrhea, headache, stomach pain, upset stomach, gas, vomiting, constipation, indigestion.

If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:

• vomiting blood
• bloody or black, tarry stools

Interactions

Misoprostol has not been shown to interfere with the beneficial effects of aspirin on signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. Misoprostol does not exert clinically significant effects on the absorption, blood levels and antiplatelet effects of therapeutic doses of aspirin. Misoprostol has no clinically significant effect on the kinetics of diclofenac or ibuprofen.