Prostaglandin medicine for prevention of certain stomach ulcers and other approved uses, with dosing and safety guidance from TrandFamilyStore.
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Cytotec is the brand name for misoprostol, a prostaglandin medicine primarily used to prevent stomach ulcers in patients taking nonsteroidal anti inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen, especially those at high risk of complications. By protecting the stomach lining, Cytotec helps reduce the chance of ulcer formation and bleeding.
It is available as 100 mcg and 200 mcg tablets. Cytotec has other approved medical uses under specific supervision, including treatment of certain obstetric or gynecologic conditions. Because misoprostol can cause uterine contractions, it must not be used during pregnancy unless prescribed for a specific, closely monitored medical reason.
Generic misoprostol is available and often less expensive. Some patients buy refills online from licensed U.S. pharmacies to reduce cost, but the source must be legitimate with clear labeling, correct strength, and a valid expiration date.
Misoprostol works by mimicking prostaglandin E1, a natural chemical that protects the stomach lining. It increases the secretion of protective mucus and bicarbonate, while reducing stomach acid production. This combination helps prevent damage from NSAIDs and promotes healing of existing irritation.
When used for approved gynecologic or obstetric purposes, misoprostol works by softening and dilating the cervix and inducing uterine contractions, but these uses require specialized medical supervision due to potential risks.
When taken for ulcer prevention, most people notice no obvious daily effect. If stomach pain or indigestion improves, it is often due to less irritation from NSAIDs over time.
For NSAID ulcer prevention, the typical adult dose is 200 mcg four times daily with food. If not tolerated due to diarrhea or cramping, 100 mcg four times daily may be used. Dosing for other approved medical uses varies and is determined by a clinician.
Take Cytotec with food to minimize stomach upset. Swallow tablets whole with water. Follow your clinician’s instructions exactly. If you miss a dose, take it when remembered unless it is near your next scheduled dose—then skip it. Do not double up.
Generic misoprostol is widely available and inexpensive. Buying from licensed online pharmacies can save money. Cheap pricing is fine when labeling and expiration dates are clear and a pharmacist is available for questions.
Common side effects include diarrhea, abdominal cramping, nausea, and gas. These are more common when starting treatment and often improve within a few days to weeks.
Cytotec should not be used during pregnancy for ulcer prevention or other non obstetric purposes, as it can cause miscarriage, premature birth, or birth defects. Use with caution in people with inflammatory bowel disease, dehydration, or heart disease.
Women of childbearing potential should have a negative pregnancy test before starting Cytotec and use reliable contraception during treatment. If buying Cytotec online, choose licensed U.S. pharmacies, verify the strength and expiration date, and ensure labeling is clear. Cheap pricing is acceptable when those checks are met.
Cytotec is approved to help prevent stomach ulcers in certain people taking NSAIDs and has other specialized medical uses under clinician supervision.
No, not for ulcer prevention. Cytotec can cause miscarriage, premature birth, or birth defects. It is only used during pregnancy for specific approved purposes under strict medical supervision.
The usual adult dose is 200 mcg four times daily with meals and at bedtime. If not tolerated, your clinician may lower it to 100 mcg four times daily.
Diarrhea, stomach cramping, nausea, and gas are the most common. These often improve within a few days to weeks.
Yes. This is a common side effect, especially at the start of treatment. Taking it with food and avoiding magnesium antacids can help.
Yes, if purchased from a licensed U.S. pharmacy with clear labeling and expiration dates. Cheap pricing is fine when those checks are met.
Avoid magnesium containing antacids, as they can worsen diarrhea. Other types may be acceptable—ask your pharmacist.
Yes. Women who can become pregnant should use reliable contraception while on Cytotec and have a negative pregnancy test before starting.
It starts protecting the stomach soon after the first dose, but ulcer prevention benefits are maintained only with regular, ongoing use.
No. It reduces ulcer risk but does not eliminate all gastrointestinal or other risks from NSAIDs.
This website provides informational overviews of medications and does not offer medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider before starting or changing any medication.
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This page was last medically reviewed: August 2025
Educational information only. Cytotec should be used under clinician supervision. Not for use during pregnancy unless specifically prescribed for an approved purpose.