Misoprostol is a prescription drug used widely to prevent as well as treat non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)-induced stomach ulcers, for early abortion, to treat missed miscarriages and to induce labor.
As a prescription drug, Misoprostol finds favor among healthcare professionals since it is cheap, stable, and easy to transport as well as administer and unlike many medications, need not be stored under refrigeration.
Chemically speaking, Misoprostol is a synthetic Prostaglandin E1 (Prostaglandins are naturally occurring fatty acids generated by body tissues) analogue, which is responsible for causing myometrial contractions. This medication reduces the amount of acid released by the stomach and thereby protects the stomach lining and minimizes the risk of stomach ulcers.
What are the main uses of Misoprostol?
? Misoprostol is used to prevent as well as treat stomach ulcers when you are put on NSAIDS like aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen etc. and you have a propensity to develop ulcers or have a medical history that indicates so.
? Yet another common use of Misoprostol is in the induction of labor, by causing uterine contractions and cervical ripening. In fact, it has proven to be far more effective than any other medication used for inducing labor, besides being economical as well.
? Misoprostol also find use as an abortifacient (i.e., a medication that induces abortion) - it is more economical than surgical procedures and less complicated as well.
? Misoprostol is also used in prevention and treatment of post-partum hemorrhage.
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