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Generic Name: misoprostol

A GI agent - It helps to prevent stomach ulcers in patients who take medicines like ibuprofen and as... more

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What is this medicine?

MISOPROSTOL (mye soe PROST ole) helps to prevent stomach ulcers in patients who take medicines like ibuprofen and aspirin and who are at high risk of complications from ulcers.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

Crohn's disease
heart disease
kidney disease
ulcerative colitis
an unusual or allergic reaction to misoprostol, prostaglandins, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
pregnant or trying to get pregnant
breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth with a full glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Take this medicine with food.Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.

A patient information sheet for the product will be given with each prescription and refill. Read this sheet carefully each time. The sheet may change frequently.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

antacids

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Do not smoke cigarettes or drink alcohol. These increase irritation to your stomach and can make it more susceptible to damage from medicine like ibuprofen and aspirin.

If you are female, do not use this medicine if you are pregnant. Do not get pregnant while taking this medicine and for at least one month (one full menstrual cycle) after stopping this medicine. If you can become pregnant, use a reliable form of birth control while taking this medicine. Talk to your doctor about birth control options. If you do become pregnant, think you are pregnant, or want to become pregnant, immediately call your doctor for advice.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
chest pain
fainting spells
severe diarrhea
sudden shortness of breath
unusual vaginal bleeding, pelvic pain, or cramping

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

dizziness
headache
menstrual irregularity, spotting, or cramps
mild diarrhea
nausea
stomach upset or cramps

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

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All visitors to AARP.org should seek expert medical care and consult their own physicians for any specific health issues. Read this disclaimer in its entirety.

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Note: This information is not intended to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions, or adverse effects for this drug. If you have question about the drug(s) you are taking, check with your health care professional.

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