How do you take Misoprostol?

For stomach ulcer prevention: Take one 200 mcg tablet four times a day with food, or one 400 mcg dose twice daily with food. Always take it with meals to reduce diarrhoea. Swallow the tablet whole — do not crush or chew. Your doctor will tell you the exact dose depending on what it is being used for.

What are the side effects of Misoprostol?

Diarrhoea (very common, especially in the first few days), stomach cramps or abdominal pain, nausea or feeling like vomiting, headache, gas or bloating

Who should not take Misoprostol?

Women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, anyone allergic to misoprostol or other prostaglandins, women of childbearing age who are not using reliable contraception (when used for ulcer prevention), and people with inflammatory bowel disease as it can worsen diarrhoea.

Prescription

Prostaglandin analogue (stomach protector and uterine stimulant)

Misoprostol

Last reviewed June 2026

Who is this for?

What is this drug?

Misoprostol is a synthetic prostaglandin — a hormone-like substance that protects the stomach lining from acid damage and also causes the womb (uterus) to contract. It works by reducing stomach acid production and strengthening the stomach's natural protective barrier.

What is it used for?

Prevention and treatment of stomach ulcers caused by painkillers like ibuprofen and diclofenacincomplete miscarriage (to help the womb expel remaining tissue)postpartum bleeding (heavy bleeding after delivery)cervical ripening and labour induction (used only under doctor supervision in hospitals)

Browse by condition

Pregnancy & Labour Ulcer & Stomach Acid

How it works

Binds to prostaglandin F (FP) receptors on gastric mucosa and uterine smooth muscle, increasing mucus secretion and reducing acid production while simultaneously promoting uterine contractions and cervical effacement.

Prescription Required

You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.

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What to watch out for

This is a prescription-only medicine — do not buy from roadside vendors or market sellers, as fake or expired versions are dangerous and common. Women of childbearing age must have a negative pregnancy test before starting misoprostol for ulcer treatment. Never share this drug with others, especially pregnant women, as it can cause life-threatening complications.

Common Side Effects

Diarrhoea (very common
especially in the first few days)
stomach cramps or abdominal pain
nausea or feeling like vomiting
headache
gas or bloating

Serious Side Effects

Heavy or prolonged vaginal bleeding that does not stop — go to the hospital immediately. Severe allergic reaction such as swelling of the face
difficulty breathing
or skin rash — seek emergency care. Severe abdominal pain with fever or chills — see a doctor right away.

Drug Interactions

Antacids containing magnesium (like magnesium trisilicate) can make diarrhoea worse when taken with misoprostol — use aluminium-based antacids instead. NSAIDs like ibuprofen and diclofenac — misoprostol is often used alongside them but your doctor must guide the combination. Alcohol can increase stomach irritation and worsen side effects, so avoid it.

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Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Warning

Misoprostol is NOT safe during pregnancy — it can cause miscarriage, premature birth, or serious birth defects, and should never be taken by pregnant women or women who might be pregnant unless specifically directed by a doctor in a hospital setting.

Who Should NOT Take This

Women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant
anyone allergic to misoprostol or other prostaglandins
women of childbearing age who are not using reliable contraception (when used for ulcer prevention)
and people with inflammatory bowel disease as it can worsen diarrhoea.

How to Store

Store in a cool, dry place below 25°C — away from direct sunlight and humidity. In hot Nigerian weather, keep it in a cupboard or drawer, not near windows or in the kitchen. Keep out of reach of children and away from anyone who might take it by mistake, especially pregnant women.

For information only — not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.