Misoprostol

What do misoprostol tablets do? MISOPROSTOL (Cytotec(R)) helps to treat stomach ulcers and to prevent ulcers in patients using nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDS). Misoprostol reduces the amount of acid produced in the stomach and protects the stomach lining from the effects of acid. Generic misoprostol tablets are not yet available.

What should my health care professional know before I take misoprostol? They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

        •  Crohn's disease

        •  kidney disease

        •  ulcerative colitis

        •  an unusual or allergic reaction to misoprostol, 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. Misoprostol works best if taken on an empty stomach. If it upsets your stomach or causes diarrhea it may be better to take misoprostol with food. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.

Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

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 other medicines can interact with misoprostol?

        •  antacids

        •  antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen)

        •  cyclosporine

Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.

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:

        •  dehydration

        •  severe diarrhea

        •  unusual vaginal bleeding

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

        •  diarrhea

        •  headache

        •  menstrual irregularity or cramps

        •  nausea

        •  stomach pain or cramps

What do I need to watch for while I take misoprostol? It can take several days of therapy with misoprostol before your stomach pains improve. Check with your prescriber or health care professional if your condition does not improve, or if it gets worse. You can take antacids for the occasional relief of pain unless your prescriber or health care professional tells you otherwise.

Where can I keep my medicine? Keep out of the reach of children in a container that small children cannot open.

Store at room temperature below 30 degreesC (86 degreesF). Protect from moisture. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

NOTE: This information is not intended to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions, or adverse effects for this drug. If you have questions about the drug(s) you are taking, check with your health care professional.