Misoprostol: Price, Dosage & Where to Buy

Misoprostol is a medicine used to reduce the risk of stomach ulcers caused by non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, including aspirin, in people at higher risk. Its pharmacological class is listed as unclassified, although it acts like a natural substance called prostaglandin that helps protect the stomach lining. Misoprostol requires a prescription in the United Kingdom and is available as a generic medicine.

Misoprostol acts like prostaglandins, natural substances that help protect the stomach lining. It reduces the amount of acid released into the stomach and helps the lining produce protective mucus and bicarbonate. These protective substances help shield the stomach lining from acid damage.

NSAIDs can reduce the stomach's natural prostaglandin protection, making ulcers more likely. Misoprostol helps replace some of this protective effect. Prostaglandin activity can also cause the womb to contract, which explains its serious pregnancy warnings.

Misoprostol is used to reduce the risk of stomach ulcers linked to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, often called NSAIDs. These include aspirin. It is intended for people at high risk of developing a stomach ulcer or having complications from one.

This includes older people, people with a previous ulcer, and people with another illness that seriously affects their health. Misoprostol has not been shown to reduce the risk of duodenal ulcers, which occur in the first part of the small bowel. It did not reduce digestive pain or discomfort associated with NSAID use compared with placebo.

The label lists oral tablets in strengths of 100 ug and 200 ug, and a topical liquid strength of 10 g/100 mL. The label lists an adult oral dose of 200 mcg four times daily with food for reducing the risk of NSAID-related stomach ulcers. The label lists 100 mcg as an alternative if the higher dose cannot be tolerated.

The label lists administration with a meal, with the last dose of the day at bedtime. Treatment is described as continuing for the duration of NSAID therapy as prescribed by the doctor. The label states that routine adjustment of the dosing schedule is not needed for people with impaired kidney function.

The label lists a possible dose reduction if 200 mcg is not tolerated. The dosing information here concerns oral treatment for stomach ulcer prevention; the label does not describe a topical dosing schedule.

The label specifies storage at 20° to 25°C, with excursions permitted to 15° to 30°C. Store in a dry area to maintain quality.

Do not use tablets if the blister is torn or broken. Keep medicines out of the reach of children.

A missed dose may leave a gap in the stomach protection intended during NSAID treatment. General pharmacy advice is to resume the prescribed schedule rather than double a dose to make up for a missed one. Check the patient leaflet or ask a pharmacist if the timing is unclear.

Misoprostol must not be used during pregnancy to prevent NSAID-related stomach ulcers. It can cause birth defects, miscarriage, premature birth or rupture of the womb. Miscarriage caused by misoprostol may be incomplete.

If pregnancy occurs during ulcer-prevention treatment, the label states that treatment should be discontinued and the potential harm to the unborn baby explained. Contact the prescribing doctor promptly. The label does not specify breastfeeding information, so discuss breastfeeding with a doctor or pharmacist.