Misoprostol

Misoprostol is used to reduce the risk of stomach ulcers in patients taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for arthritis. 

Misoprostol is taken orally in tablet form, often in combination with the NSAID diclofenac.

The usual dose of misoprostol is 200 mcg taken two to three times per day.

Prostaglandin is a naturally occurring substance in the body that helps to maintain the stomach’s mucous lining. Misoprostol is a synthetic prostaglandin. 

Misoprostol is sometimes prescribed for patients who are taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) because NSAIDs are associated with an increased risk of stomach ulcers as they inhibit the production of prostaglandins in the stomach. Misoprostol can help reduce the risk of these stomach complications.

Misoprostol starts working within half an hour to a few hours of taking it. If you are taking misoprostol to prevent ulcers, starting it alongside your prescribed NSAID is most effective.

Any person who is pregnant or may become pregnant should not take misoprostol since it can cause emergency complications, such as an incomplete miscarriage.

Your body may take two to three days to adjust to misoprostol, during which time you may experience nausea, cramps and diarrhea. These common side effects often disappear completely, but if they persist, contact your doctor.

Take misoprostol as prescribed and contact your healthcare provider if you have any concerns while taking the medication.

To reduce some of the side effects of nausea, cramps, and diarrhea, you can take this medication with food. If side effects persist, let your healthcare provider know. 

You don’t need blood work monitoring while taking misoprostol.

Store medication at room temperature (15 to 25 degrees Celsius) and keep it out of reach of children.