Termination of intra-uterine pregnancy, preferably in combination with mifepristone
Induction of labour
Treatment of post-partum haemorrhage due to uterineatony, when injectable oxytocics are not available or ineffective
Cervical dilation before aspiration or curettage
Forms and strengths
25 micrograms and 200 micrograms tablets
Dosage and duration
Incomplete abortion
Up to 13 weeks since the last menstrual period: 400 micrograms single dose sublingually or 600 micrograms single dose orally
From 13 to 22 weeks since the last menstrual period: 400 micrograms sublingually every 3 hours
Termination of pregnancy
Up to 13 weeks since the last menstrual period: 800 micrograms single dose sublingually or vaginally. If expulsion has not occurred within 24 hours administer a 2nd dose of 800 micrograms.
From 13 to 22 weeks since the last menstrual period: 400 micrograms single dose sublingually or vaginally every 3 hours
Induction of labour
25 micrograms orally every 2 hours, or if not possible, vaginally every 6 hours, until labour starts (max. 200 micrograms per 24 hours)
Treatment of post-partum haemorrhage
800 micrograms single dose sublingually
Cervical dilation before aspiration or curettage
400 micrograms single dose sublingually 1 to 3 hours before the procedure or vaginally 3 hours before the procedure
Contra-indications, adverse effects, precautions
For induction of labour if the foetus is viable:
Do not administer in the event of previous caesarean section.
Administer with caution in case of grand multiparity or over distention of the uterus (risk of uterine rupture).
Monitor the intensity and frequency of contractions as well as foetal heart rate after administration of misoprostol.
Do not administer simultaneously with oxytocin. At least 4 hours must have elapsed since the last administration of misoprostol before oxytocin can be given.
For incomplete abortion or termination of pregnancy after 13 weeks since the last menstrual period: reduce the dose by half in the event of 2 or more previous caesareansections.