What is the most important information I should know about misoprostol?
Misoprostol can cause birth defects, premature birth, uterine rupture, miscarriage, or incomplete miscarriage and dangerous uterine bleeding. Do not use misoprostol if you are pregnant.
If you are able to become pregnant, you will need to have a negative pregnancy test before starting this treatment. You will also need to use effective birth control to prevent pregnancy during treatment.
What is misoprostol?
Misoprostol is used to prevent stomach ulcers during treatment with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) such as aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, celecoxib, diclofenac, indomethacin, meloxicam, and others.
Misoprostol may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking misoprostol?
You should not use this medicine if you are allergic to misoprostol or other prostaglandins, or if you are pregnant.
Tell your doctor if you have ever had:
- inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or other intestinal problems;
- heart disease; or
- if you are dehydrated.
May cause birth defects. Do not use if you are pregnant. You must use effective birth control while using misoprostol and for at least 1 month after your last dose. Tell your doctor if you become pregnant.
You will need to have a negative pregnancy test before starting this treatment.
Stop taking this medicine and tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant during treatment.
Ask a doctor if it is safe to breastfeed while using this medicine.
How should I take misoprostol?
Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.
Do not share this medicine with another person, even if they have the same symptoms you have.
Misoprostol is usually taken four times a day with meals. The last dose of the day should be at bedtime. Follow your doctor's instructions.
You may have nausea, stomach cramps, or diarrhea while taking this medicine, especially during the first few weeks after you start taking misoprostol. These symptoms usually last for about a week.
Call your doctor if you have severe nausea, stomach pain, or diarrhea lasting longer than 8 days.
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Take the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at one time.
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.
What should I avoid while taking misoprostol?
Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.
What are the possible side effects of misoprostol?
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Call your doctor at once if you have:
- severe ongoing stomach discomfort or diarrhea; or
- dehydration --dizziness, confusion, feeling very thirsty, less urination.
Common side effects may include:
- diarrhea and stomach pain.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
What other drugs will affect misoprostol?
Tell your doctor about all your other medicines, especially:
This list is not complete. Other drugs may affect misoprostol, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible drug interactions are listed here.
Where can I get more information?
Your doctor or pharmacist can provide more information about misoprostol.
