Misoprostol – it is found in two drugs, Arthrotec and Cytotec . It is available on the world market under the name misoprostol.
Pharmacological form – round or hexagonal tablet of white or grayish color.
Clinical data – misoprostol can be used to terminate a pregnancy up to 9 weeks pregnant when used in combination with mifepristone.
Indications for use
A synthetic analogue of prostagladin * E1, which acts by binding to the EP3 receptor, which results in the inhibition of the secretion of gastric juice during rest and after a meal. In addition, the drug increases the secretion of bicarbonates, as well as mucus, which has a protective and soothing effect.
Prostaglandins are hormones with various effects which act locally to stimulate the nerves and regulate physiological processes. They work, among others pro-inflammatory, protects the gastric mucosa, stimulates uterine contractions and dilates blood vessels. They are formed as a result of processes related to the transformation of arachidonic acid with the participation of an enzyme called cyclooxygenase (COX). Among the several forms of this enzyme, there is cytoprotection of the gastric epithelium (protection of gastric epithelial cells), or prostanoids, e.g. in inflammatory processes. Prostaglandins formed in the gastric mucosa stimulate a number of changes which result in the reduction of hydrochloric acid secretion. They also have a protective effect by stimulating the production of mucus and bicarbonate and increase blood flow in the mucosa.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), by reducing inflammation, inhibit cyclooxygenases, but also weaken the protective effect in the gastrointestinal tract. This increases the risk of developing diseases related to the action of hydrochloric acid. To reduce the risk of these undesirable effects, a drug analogous to the physiological prostaglandin E1, misoprostol, is administered.
Scientific characteristics of misoprostol containing medicinal products
The substance contained in misoprostol is used in the treatment and prevention of gastric and duodenal ulcers resulting from treatment with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. The drug inhibits the secretion of gastric juices. In addition to its use in gastrology, the drug is also used in gynecology. It causes uterine contractions, which result in the expulsion of pregnancy products from the woman’s reproductive organs.
Absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, misoprostol increases the tone and contractility of the uterine muscle in pregnant women, leading to increased uterine contractions. The drug administered with mifepristone causes a miscarriage and expels the embryo from the woman’s body. Due to the low effectiveness (60 percent) and the lack of certainty of embryo expulsion, it is not recommended as a stand-alone abortifacient.
Composition and form – one tablet of cytotec contains 200 micrograms of misoprostol.
Composition and form – one tablet of arthrotec contains 50 or 75 micrograms of diclofenac surrounded by a shell containing 200 micrograms of misoprostol. Diclofenac covers the misoprostol with a thin layer. This is clearly seen when breaking the tablet in half. Misoprostol is softer, so it will dissolve or crumble more easily than diclofenac.