Cytotec (Misoprostol) - A Dangerous Drug

It is estimated that in about 200,000 births in one year, Cytotec was used to stimulate delivery. This is where most of the problems with this drug, including birth defects have incurred. The purpose of the drug was for the prevention of ulcers, but it has also been used in abortions. Brain damage to infants is of particular concern.

From Medline Plus Health Information

Provided by National Library of Medicine and National Instututes of Health

IMPORTANT WARNING:

Do not take misoprostol to prevent ulcers if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. Misoprostol may cause miscarriages, premature labor, or birth defects. If you are a woman of childbearing age, you may take misoprostol to prevent ulcers only if you have had a negative pregnancy test in the past 2 weeks and if you use a reliable method of birth control while taking misoprostol. You must begin taking misoprostol on the second or third day of your menstrual period. If you become pregnant while taking misoprostol, stop taking it and call your doctor immediately. Before taking misoprostol, ask your pharmacist or doctor for a copy of the manufacturer's information for the patient and read it carefully. Talk to your doctor about the risks of taking misoprostol. Do not let anyone else take your medication, especially a woman who is or may become pregnant.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Misoprostol is used to prevent ulcers in people who take certain arthritis or pain medicines, including aspirin, that can cause ulcers. It protects the stomach lining and decreases stomach acid secretion.

• More Information on Misoprostol click link below http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/medmaster/a689009.html

• More Information on Misoprostol (Systemic) click link below http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/uspdi/202375.html

Cytotec (Misoprostol) in the News

• Search FDA MedWatch for News on this Drug - Click Here

Illicit abortion drug causes birth defects

Aug. 29, 2001 - Failed attempts to induce abortion using an ulcer drug called misoprostol may be causing a minor epidemic of birth defects around the world. Misuse of the drug is increasingly common where abortion is not freely available. Click to story

Cytotec Maker Has Warned Against Use in Delivery and Abortion

April 21, 2001 – Warnings were issued today about the drug Cytotec being used in pregnant women to induce labor and about the dangers of its use for abortions. Searle, the pharmaceutical giant, which manufactures Cytotec, issued the warning about the drug's use. Click to story

Latin American Women Turn to Cheap Ulcer Drug to End Pregnancies

March 19, 2003 - Frustrated by governments that outlaw abortion, Latin American women are turning to a cheap ulcer medication to end unwanted pregnancies, according to a March 19, 2003 story by Associated Press writer Andres Cala. Click to story

Brazil Was First to Report Wide-Spread Use of Cytotec for Abortions

Early experiences with Cytotec being used for abortions and endangering women was reported from Brazil. This is an indepth look at the consequences there. Click to story

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