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Misoprostol (Cytotec)
Misoprostol is a prostaglandin E1 analog that increases gastric mucus production and bicarbonate secretion while reducing gastric acid secretion.
Misoprostol is a prostaglandin E1 analog that increases gastric mucus production and bicarbonate secretion while reducing gastric acid secretion. Used for Prevention of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)-induced gastric ulcers, Treatment of gastric ulcers, Medical abortion (in combination with mifepristone).
At a glance
| Generic name | Misoprostol (Cytotec) |
|---|---|
| Also known as | Cytotec |
| Sponsor | Wolfson Medical Center |
| Drug class | Prostaglandin analog |
| Target | Prostaglandin E1 receptor (EP receptor) |
| Modality | Small molecule |
| Therapeutic area | Gastroenterology; Obstetrics |
| Phase | FDA-approved |
Mechanism of action
Misoprostol binds to prostaglandin receptors on gastric mucosa cells, enhancing protective mechanisms against acid-induced injury. It also promotes gastric blood flow and accelerates mucosal healing. Additionally, it has uterotonic properties that increase uterine contractions, which is the basis for its use in obstetrics and gynecology.
Approved indications
- Prevention of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)-induced gastric ulcers
- Medical abortion (in combination with mifepristone)
- Induction of labor
- Treatment of postpartum hemorrhage
Common side effects
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Nausea
- Flatulence
- Headache
- Uterine cramping
Key clinical trials
- Combined Use of Oxytocin and Misoprostol in the Prevention of Post Partum Haemorrhage (PHASE4)
- Simultaneous Mifepristone and Misoprostol Versus Misoprostol Alone for Induction of Labor of Nonviable Second Trimester Pregnancy: a Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial (PHASE4)
- Laminaria Japonicum Followed by Misoprostol Versus Misoprostol Alone for Mid-Trimester Abortion Induction in Scarred Uterus (PHASE4)
- A Real-World Study Comparing the Efficacy of Different Treatment Regimens for Early Missed Abortion (NA)
- Comparison of Outcome of Foley Catheter Versus Misoprostol for Induction of Labor (NA)
- Cooling the Uterus in C-section After Dysfunctional Labor (NA)
- Carbetocin vs Misoprostol for Postpartum Hemorrhage Prevention (NA)
- Missed Period Pill Study (PHASE4)
Primary sources
Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.
| Source | Used for |
|---|---|
| ClinicalTrials.gov | Trial enrolment, design, endpoints, results |
Competitive intelligence
For the full competitive landscape — auto-detected comparators, recent regulatory actions across the set, upcoming PDUFA, patent timeline, sponsor landscape:
- Misoprostol (Cytotec) CI brief — competitive landscape report
- Misoprostol (Cytotec) updates RSS · CI watch RSS
- Wolfson Medical Center portfolio CI