Misoprostol

Synthetic PGE1 analogue for treatment/prevention of NSAID-induced gastric ulcers; GI cytoprotective; cervical ripening/softening in mares. Synthetic prostaglandin E1 analogue (misoprostol). Mechanism: binds EP3 prostaglandin receptors on gastric parietal cells → inhibits cAMP-mediated acid secretion; stimulates mucus and bicarbonate secretion → gastric mucosal protection. Also directly stimulates uterine smooth muscle (oxytocic/cervical softening) via EP2/EP4 receptors in mares. Oral or intrauterine. Key information Prostaglandin E1 analogue. HUMAN SAFETY: Causes uterine contractions — do NOT handle if pregnant. Wear gloves. Refrigerate or store per label. Used for NSAID-associated GI protection and cervical ripening in mares.

Oral (GI protection): Administer orally. May be given with food to improve compliance and reduce GI upset. Administer with food to reduce GI adverse effects. to reduce GI cramping. Administer 3–4 times daily with meals. Intrauterine (mares, cervical softening): dissolve in sterile lubricating gel; infuse into uterine lumen or apply to cervix. Store refrigerated (2–8°C); do not freeze. If a dose is missed Administer as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume the normal schedule. Never double up doses to make up for a missed one.

GI: diarrhea, abdominal cramping, nausea (common — prostaglandin GI effects; take with food). Uterine contractions/abortion (avoid in pregnant animals). Shivering, chills (transient). Fever. Headache.

For animals Avoid in pregnant animals. — will induce uterine contractions and abortion. Oral use for gastric ulcer prevention: GI cramping and diarrhea are dose-limiting. Separate from antacids. For people handling this medication Wear gloves when handling. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. Prostaglandin — serious reproductive hazard. Pregnant women must NOT handle — can cause abortion or induce labor even with minimal exposure. Women of childbearing age should wear gloves. Avoid contact with eyes; if contact occurs, flush with water for 15 minutes and seek medical attention. Keep out of reach of children.

Contact your veterinarian immediately. Misoprostol overdose causes severe GI cramping, diarrhea, and dangerous uterine contractions. Do not use around pregnant people. Contact your veterinarian, a veterinary emergency clinic, or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888-426-4435) immediately. Do not induce vomiting unless specifically directed by a veterinary professional.