| Misoprostol |
Website Links For Misoprostol |
Information AboutMisoprostol |
| CATEGORIES ABOUT MISOPROSTOL | |
| abortifacients | |
| gastroenterology | |
| gynecology | |
| methods of abortion | |
| prostaglandins | |
| SHOPPER'S DELIGHT | |
Misoprostol is a Drug that is FDA -approved for the treatment and prevention of Stomach Ulcers . It is also used to induce Labor and as an Abortifacient . It is marketed by Pfizer under the trade name '''Cytotec''', but Generic Versions are available as well. Chemically, misoprostol is a synthetic Prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) analogue. When administered, misoprostol stimulates increased secretion of the protective Mucus that lines the Gastrointestinal Tract and increases mucosal blood flow, thereby increasing mucosal integrity. It is sometimes co-prescribed with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs ( NSAIDs ) to prevent the occurrence of Gastric Ulcer ation, a common adverse effect of the NSAIDs. More common Adverse Effects of misopristol include Nausea , Vomiting , Diarrhea , abdominal pain, chills, shivering and Fever . Because of its abortifacient properties, it should not be taken by pregnant women. GYNECOLOGICAL USES Although not licensed for the indication, misoprostol is commonly prescribed to expedite the onset of Labor by causing Uterine Contractions and the ripening (opening) of the Cervix . Other prostaglandins very similar to Misoprostol have been approved by the FDA for this purpose. The drug is highly effective and much less expensive than the other FDA-approved Drugs for this purpose. A clinical trial is currently underway to obtain FDA approval for this use of the drug. As with any drug there can be complications; high doses can cause Fetal death and Uterine rupture. Misoprostol is one of the drugs used for medical (non-surgical) termination of pregnancy (see Abortion ). In many countries it is used in conjunction with Mifepristone (RU-486). After mifepristone is taken orally, misoprostol is taken 24-72 hours later causing the expulsion of the fetus and associated matter in over 98% of the cases. In some cases, Misoprostol is used to expel a dead Embryo or Fetus in a Miscarriage . It can also be used to dilate the cervix in preparation for a surgical abortion. Misoprostol alone has been shown to be highly effective (about 90%) in inducing an abortion, and it is used for Self-induced Abortion s in many countries where abortions are illegal. This method is especially common in South America n countries where misoprostol is available from pharmacies for other medical indications. Poor immigrant populations in '', October 2, 2005 There is a serious risk that, when the method is not successful, the fetus can be born with severe physical abnormalities. Misoprostol is also used to prevent and treat Post-partum Hemorrhage . REFERENCES EXTERNAL LINKS AND FURTHER READING
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