General Description: Misoprostol is used in dogs and cats to prevent or treat stomach ulcers, especially in pets taking NSAIDs. Other uses include: controlling allergic skin diseases in dogs (in combination with other drugs) and for the protection of the kidneys in pets taking the drug cyclosporine.
What is this drug?
A synthetic prostaglandin analog; protects the gastric lining and inhibits gastric acid secretion
Given by mouth
Reasons for prescribing:
Used to prevent and treat stomach ulcers, especially those caused by the use of NSAIDs (ex. aspirin, etodolac, deracoxib, etc.)
May be used in combination with other drugs to control allergic skin diseases in dogs
Decreases the toxic effects to the kidneys resulting from the use of the drug cyclosporine
What dogs/cats should not take this medication?
Pregnant animals – miscarriage can result.
Do not give to animals nursing young
Do not use in animals with blood vessel conditions in the heart or brain. These animals could suffer seizures or very low blood pressure.
Use with caution in pets with a history of seizures
If your pet has had an earlier allergic reaction to misoprostol or like products
Directions:
Give the exact amount prescribed and only as often as directed. It is usually giventhree times a day and can be used long-term.
Read and follow the label carefully.
Ideally, give the medication at the same time(s) daily.
If your pet is suffering any side effects, give with food. This will delay absorption.
Give this medication for as long as veterinarian directs. Do not skip doses or stop giving the medication without consulting your veterinarian.
Do not give to pregnant pets as miscarriage can result.
Call ahead for refills.
What if a dose is missed?
If a dose is missed, give it as soon as you can. If it is time already for the next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to the normal schedule. Do not give two doses at the same time.
What to tell/ask veterinarian before giving medication?
Talk to your veterinarian about:
When will your pet need to be rechecked
What tests may need to be performed prior to and during treatment with this drug
Risks and benefits of using this drug
Tell your veterinarian about:
If your pet has experienced side-effects on other drugs/products
If your pet has experienced digestive upset now or ever
If your pet has experienced any other medical problems or allergies now or ever
If your pet is pregnant or nursing or if you plan to breed your pet
Storage and Warnings:
Misoprostol can cause miscarriage in pregnant women. If you are pregnant, do not handle this drug.
Store in a tight, light resistant, childproof container in a cool, dry place at room temperature away from heat and direct sunlight.
Keep this and all medication out of reach of children and pets.
Call your physician immediately if you accidentally take this product.
Possible side effects:
Stomach upset (vomiting and diarrhea). Flatulence and abdominal pain are possible too. These signs should be temporary and resolve in a few days. If these symptoms persist or are severe, contact your veterinarian for advice.
Possible uterine cramps and vaginal bleeding in unspayed female dogs. Contact your veterinarian immediately should you see these symptoms.
Can this drug be given with other drugs?
Yes, but possible interactions may occur with magnesium-containing antacids, vitamins and supplements
If your pet experiences any unusual reactions when taking multiple medications, contact your veterinarian
Overdosing?
Contact your veterinarian immediately if pet eats more than the prescribed amount.
What else should I know?
Notify your veterinarian if your animal’s condition does not improve or worsens despite this treatment.
As with all prescribed medicines, misoprostol should only be given to the pet for which it was prescribed. It should be given only for the condition for which it was prescribed.
This is just a summary of information about misoprostol. If you have any questions or concerns about misoprostol or the condition it was prescribed for, contact your veterinarian.
