Misoprostol

About Misoprostol

This belongs to the group of medicines known as prostaglandin analogues.

Misoprostol can be used to treat stomach and duodenal ulcers. It is also used to prevent the stomach irritation and ulceration caused by NSAIDs (Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs).

Misoprostol is available in tablet form.

It is also sometimes known as: Cytotec. You may notice the use of any of these names on the packaging of your medicine.

Before Taking Misoprostol

Before taking misoprostol make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• if you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding
• if you suffer from heart disease or hypotension (low blood pressure)
• if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine
• if you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal and complementary medicines

How to Take Misoprostol

• Take your medication exactly as directed by your doctor.
• Always read the manufacturer's information leaflet, if possible, before beginning treatment.
• Take each dose with or immediately after food.
• Do not take antacid indigestion remedies at the same time of day as misoprostol. Take indigestion remedies at least two hours before or two hours after a dose of misoprostol.
• Try to take misoprostol at the same times each day to avoid missing any doses.
• If you miss a dose of misoprostol take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue taking it at the usual times. Never take two doses at the same time to compensate. If in doubt speak with your doctor or pharmacist.
• Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of misoprostol contact your doctor or go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Always take the container with you, if possible, even if it is empty.
• Misoprostol is for you. Never give it to others even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Before taking any 'over-the-counter' medicines, check with your pharmacist which medicines are safe for you to take alongside misoprostol.
• It is important that women do not become pregnant whilst being treated with misoprostol. If you are a woman of child bearing age you must take effective contraceptive measures. Ask your doctor if you are unsure.
• Misoprostol may cause dizziness. Make sure you are unaffected before driving, operating machinery or doing any other jobs which could be dangerous if you were to become dizzy.

Can Misoprostol cause problems?

As well as their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

Diarrhoea, tummy pain, indigestion, flatulence (excess wind), feeling sick, being sick, vaginal bleeding between menstrual periods, heavy or painful menstrual periods, skin rashes or dizziness.

If you experience any other worrying symptoms, which you think may be due to this medicine, discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store Misoprostol

• Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
• Store in a cool dry place, away from direct heat and light.
• Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Discard them safely out of the reach of children or take them to your local pharmacist who will dispose of them for you.

© EMIS and Cegedim Pharmacy Services Ltd 2005   Updated: 12/12/2002