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What is Cytotec?
Cytotec reduces stomach acid and helps protect the stomach from damage that can be caused by taking a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug. Cytotec is used to prevent stomach ulcers during treatment with aspirin or an NSAID.
Important Information
Cytotec can cause birth defects, premature birth, uterine rupture, miscarriage, or incomplete miscarriage and dangerous uterine bleeding. Do not use this medicine 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.
Before taking this medicine
You should not use Cytotec if you are allergic to Cytotec or other prostaglandins, or if you are pregnant.
To make sure Cytotec is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:
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inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), or other intestinal problems;
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heart disease; or
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if you are dehydrated.
FDA pregnancy category X. Cytotec can cause birth defects, premature birth, uterine rupture, miscarriage, or incomplete miscarriage and dangerous uterine bleeding. Do not use this medicine if you are pregnant. Use effective birth control to prevent pregnancy while you are using this medicine, and for at least 1 month after your treatment ends.
If you are able to become pregnant, you will need to have a negative pregnancy test before you start taking Cytotec. Treatment with this medicine should begin on the second or third day of your menstrual period.
Stop taking this medicine and tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant during treatment.
It is not known whether misoprostol passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
How should I take Cytotec?
Follow all directions on your prescription label. Do not take this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.
Do not share this medicine with another person.
Cytotec is usually taken with meals and at bedtime. Follow your doctor’s instructions.
You may have nausea, stomach cramps, or diarrhoea while taking this medicine, especially during the first few weeks after you start taking Cytotec. These symptoms usually last for about a week.
What should I avoid while taking Cytotec?
Ask your doctor before using an antacid, and use only the type your doctor recommends. Some antacids can increase your risk of diarrhoea while you are taking Cytotec.
Cytotec side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Call your doctor at once if you have:
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severe ongoing stomach discomfort or diarrhoea; or
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dehydration symptoms–feeling very thirsty or hot, being unable to urinate, heavy sweating, or hot and dry skin.
Common side effects may include:
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diarrhoea;
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stomach pain, nausea, upset stomach, gas;
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vaginal bleeding or spotting, heavy menstrual flow; or
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menstrual cramps.
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 Cytotec?
Other drugs may interact with misoprostol, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell each of your health care providers about all medicines you use now and any medicine you start or stop using.
