16.01.4 Misoprostol

Misoprostol has previously been discussed (Chapter 10). Misoprostol is a selective agonist at prostaglandin EP receptors. Misoprostol is active after oral administration, and is long lasting. Misoprostol is an effective inhibitor of acid secretion. The most frequent side effect with misoprostol is diarrhoea, which occurs in about 30% of patients. The mechanism of the diarrhea is prostaglandin EP receptor-mediated stimulation of gut motility. Misoprostol also cause EP-receptor-mediated contractions of the uterus. Thus, misoprostol is contraindicated during pregnancy because it can cause abortion. Misoprostol is used to prevent mucosal injury caused by NSAIDs.