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Cytotec
Drug name Cytotec (Misoprostol)
Drug Uses This medication is used to prevent stomach ulcers while you take NSAIDs (e.g., aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen), especially if you are at risk for developing ulcers or have a history of ulcers. Cytotec helps to decrease your risk of serious ulcer complications such as bleeding. This medication protects your stomach lining by lowering the amount of acid that comes in contact with it. This medication is also used in combination with another drug (mifepristone) to end a pregnancy (abortion).
How Taken This medicine comes with a patient information leaflet. Read it carefully. If you have any questions about this drug, ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist. Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. If you are taking this drug to prevent stomach ulcers, take it by mouth usually four times a day, after meals and at bedtime to minimize diarrhea, or as directed by your doctor. If you are taking this medication for abortion, take it by mouth exactly as directed by your doctor. If you are using this medication to start labor, your healthcare professional will insert it into your vagina. Avoid taking antacids that contain magnesium while using cytotec because they may make the diarrhea it causes worse. If you need an antacid, consult your doctor or pharmacist to help you choose a product. For ulcer prevention, continue to take this drug for as long as you take NSAIDs. Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. Remember to use it at the same times each day. Inform your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.
Missed Dose If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Storage Store at or below 77 degrees F (25 degrees C) in a dry place away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medicines away from children and pets.
Possible Side Effects Nausea or stomach cramps may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Diarrhea is common with cytotec and usually occurs about two weeks after you start taking it, and lasts for about a week. Be sure to keep up your intake of fluids and minerals/electrolytes to prevent dehydration. Persistent diarrhea may sometimes lead to a large loss of your body's water and minerals. Tell your doctor immediately if you develop any of these serious signs of dehydration and mineral imbalance: severe dizziness, decreased amount of urine, mental/mood changes, muscle weakness, slow/irregular heartbeat. Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people, using this medication, do not have serious side effects. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: menstrual problems or irregularities, unusual/heavy vaginal bleeding. A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction may include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
More Information Do not share this medication with others.
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