Misoprostol (Cytotec)
Cytotec is a class of antireflux drugs for people with stomach ulcers who want to take pain relievers, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen. Actually, this drug is not available in Indonesia. However, there is a drug that functions similarly to cytotec, namely misoprostol.
Benefits of Cytotec
This medication is used to prevent stomach ulcers while taking pain relievers for people with stomach ulcers.
Misoprostol helps reduce the risk of serious ulcer complications such as bleeding. It protects the stomach lining by lowering the amount of acid.
Cytotec Side Effects
Possible side effects include nausea or stomach cramps. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Diarrhea can also occur after taking this medication. It usually occurs about two weeks after the patient starts taking it and can last for about a week.
Cytotec Dosage
The dosage may vary from person to person, depending on the patient’s health condition and response to treatment.
Therefore, this drug should not be given carelessly and must be prescribed by a doctor.
The following dosage is based on health conditions:
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Gastric ulcer
The adult dose is 800 micrograms daily. This dose can be divided into 2–4 doses over a minimum of four weeks.
Can be continued for up to eight weeks if necessary.
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Prevention of Gastric Ulcers
The adult dose is 200 micrograms daily. This dose can be divided into 2–4 doses over a minimum of four weeks.
If the body responds well to the drug, the dose can be reduced to 100 micrograms divided four times a day.
How to Use Cytotec
To use it, make sure to consume it according to your doctor’s instructions. Don’t forget to read the packaging label first.
If you have any questions about this medicine, ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.
If using this medication to induce labor, your doctor will usually insert it into the vagina.
Avoid taking antacids containing magnesium while using misoprostol as it may worsen diarrhea.
To prevent ulcers, continue taking this medication while taking pain relievers.
Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. Remember to use it at the same time each day.
Caution in Using Cytotec
Before taking misoprostol, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it or any of its ingredients.
This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Ask your pharmacist for more details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of stomach or intestinal disease.
Alcohol and tobacco use can increase the risk of stomach bleeding.
Therefore, limit alcoholic beverages and stop smoking.
This medication should also not be used during pregnancy to prevent stomach ulcers as it may harm the fetus.
Cytotec Interactions
Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects.
Well, the drugs that are suspected of interacting with this drug are:
- Topical dinoprostone.
- Magnesium hydroxide.
- Magaldrate.
- Magnesium carbonate.
- Magnesium oxide.
- Quinapril.
Cytotec Contraindications
Contraindications to the use of misoprostol are a history of allergic reactions to this drug and hypersensitivity to prostaglandins.
Have a health complaint? Contact a doctor immediately to get the right diagnosis.
Cytotec Cost
The cost for misoprostol 200 mcg oral tablet is around $10 for a supply of 2 tablets