Drugs.com describes misoprostol, the generic name for Cytotec, as a medication known as a prostaglandin that may be taken to prevent stomach ulcers, decrease stomach acid production and protect the stomach against further acid damage. The drug may also be prescribed for other uses, including first or second trimester abortions, induction of labor and postpartum hemorrhage. Like other medications, there are side effects associated with this drug. Most are manageable and subside once the medication is stopped.
Gastrointestinal Symptoms
According to Rxlist.com, individuals taking misoprostol in doses of either 400 or 800 mcg experienced frequent diarrhea and abdominal pain. Diarrhea is typically dose-related and usually resolves within eight days, but can sometimes be severe and lead to dehydration. This side effect can be minimized by taking the medication with meals, at bedtime and avoiding taking antacids containing magnesium, says Rxlist.com. Other side effects of the drug listed by Rxlist.com include nausea, flatulence, abdominal pain or bloating, constipation and vomiting.
Gynecological Side Effects
Women taking misoprostol typically experience gynecologic side effects including spotting, cramps, menstrual disorders and post-menopausal bleeding. Any post-menopausal bleeding should be evaluated for possible malignancy, says Drugs.com. The drug should not be given to treat ulcers in women who may be pregnant, as it can cause miscarriage, premature birth and birth defects. In women to whom this drug was given to induce labor or abortion, uterine rupture has been reported. Women who are breast-feeding can pass traces of misoprostol in her breast milk, but according to Drugs.com, there have been no reported adverse effects in infants who are breast-feeding and the medication is safe to take.
Passing Tissue
When misoprostol is used to help the body pass products of conception after an incomplete miscarriage or during a medical abortion, it may or may not be combined with the medication mifepristone. Vaginal bleeding will occur, along with contractions to help the uterus expel the tissue. Fever and chills may accompany this process, but MayoClinic.com lists some side effects that are serious and may warrant immediate medical attention, including bleeding through more than two pads in an hour for two or more hours with continued bleeding, fever lasting more than 24 hours, a fever higher than 100.4 degrees F, vaginal discharge with a foul smell, and severe back or stomach pain.
Member Comments