Misoprostol reduces the chance of stomach ulcers in patients taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). It works to protect the stomach lining and decrease the acidic secretions that can result in stomach ulcers. Misoprostol should not be used to treat existing stomach ulcers.

Misoprostol is available via prescription from a licensed healthcare provider. No over-the-counter version of this drug exists. Misoprostol can be purchased in its generic form or under the brand name Cytotec.

Misoprostol prevents stomach ulcers in patients who take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or other medications used to treat pain or arthritis.

Stomach ulcers, also known as peptic ulcers, are small sores that develop on the lining of the stomach, lower intestine, or esophagus. Stomach acid secretions burn the stomach lining and remove the mucus layer that protects it, which results in these sores.

NSAIDs work by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins, which are chemical messengers that play a role in inflammation, pain, and the protection of the stomach lining. NSAIDs reduce prostaglandin production, which weakens the stomach's protective layer and makes it more vulnerable to damage from stomach acid. Decreased prostaglandins can lead to decreased mucus production, reduced blood flow to the stomach lining, and impaired repair of damaged tissue. As a result, the stomach lining becomes more vulnerable to irritation and erosion by stomach acid, which can lead to the development of ulcers.

Misoprostol may be prescribed in conjunction with an NSAID to prevent this specific side effect from occurring.

Misoprostol helps prevent stomach ulcers by increasing the production of protective mucus in the stomach lining and reducing stomach acid secretion. It is a synthetic version of the prostaglandin hormone, a type of chemical messenger that plays a crucial role in maintaining the health of the stomach lining.

When misoprostol is taken orally, it binds to specific receptors in the stomach, stimulating mucus production and blood flow to the stomach lining. This enhanced mucus layer acts as a barrier, shielding the stomach from the damaging effects of stomach acid and reducing the risk of ulcer formation. Moreover, misoprostol inhibits excess stomach acid secretion, further protecting the stomach lining.

Misoprostol has been shown to cause mild side effects. Talk to a healthcare provider if these adverse reactions become severe or do not go away after a few days.

Mild side effects reported from misoprostol use include:

• Stomach pain
  
• Stomach discomfort
  
• Diarrhea
  
• Constipation
  
• Gas
  
• Heartburn
  
• Vomiting
  
• Headaches
  
• Menstrual irregularities
  
• Fever and chills
  
  

More severe side effects include:

• Bloody or tarry stools
  
• Vomiting blood
  
• Painful menstruation
  
• Heavy bleeding
  
• Low blood pressure
  
• Abnormal heart rate
  
• Heart attack
  
  

Seek medical attention immediately if you notice any of these symptoms. These are signs of a severe adverse reaction or overdose requiring medical treatment.

As with all medications, inform your doctor of any medical conditions you currently manage before taking this drug. Tell them about any and all medications, prescription drugs, and supplements you are taking before starting treatment with misoprostol. Specifically, inform your provider if you take any antacids, medication with aspirin, or arthritis medication. This medication can interact with other substances, causing potentially severe adverse reactions.

Finally, let your doctor know if you are pregnant or plan on becoming pregnant before starting treatment with misoprostol. If you become pregnant while taking this medication, stop taking it and inform your healthcare provider immediately. Misoprostol has been shown to cause miscarriages, premature labor, and birth defects.

Misoprostol is commonly supplied as an oral tablet. The recommended dosage varies depending on the patient’s age, body weight, and condition. Take this medication exactly as ordered. Do not increase or discontinue the dosage without consulting your healthcare provider first.

Misoprostol should be taken with food. Swallow the tablet whole. Do not crush or chew this medication.

If you notice any adverse side effects, notify your healthcare provider immediately.

If you miss a dose of misoprostol, take it as soon as possible. If it’s nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your regularly scheduled amount. Do not take a double dose of misoprostol.

Misoprostol is currently only available via prescription. This means that a licensed healthcare provider must authorize the use of this medication.

If you are looking for a prescription, doctors on Sesame can write a prescription–or refill an existing one–during a virtual or in-person visit. Note that not all drugs can be prescribed via an online video appointment. In some cases, an in-person doctor's visit is required for a prescription.

You can arrange for same-day pickup at your pharmacy, depending on the medication. Book an appointment with a provider on Sesame today to discuss whether or not misoprostol is right for you.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your healthcare provider. Sesame cannot guarantee that you will be provided a prescription after a video or in-person appointment. Providers on Sesame are unable to prescribe controlled substances. For more information about controlled substances, check out the Drug Enforcement Agency’s scheduling guidelines here.

Providers on Sesame can write a prescription for misoprostol to be picked up near you—often within the same day. Don’t wait to get your prescription filled. Talk to a provider on Sesame and get your prescription ordered right away for fast and convenient pickup from a pharmacy of your choice.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your doctor.