mst tablet - Misoprostol (NA) medicine

Misoprostol Tablet: Complete Guide to Uses, Side Effects, and Safety

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🏭 Synokem Pharmaceuticals Ltd 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Sep 25, 2026
🤰 Pregnancy Category Misoprostol is contraindicated in pregnancy for ulcer prevention because it can cause abortion. However, it is used in pregnancy for specific indications such as medical termination and labor induction under strict medical supervision. The FDA has not assigned a pregnancy category; risk must be assessed individually. 📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: High for approved indications.
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Sep 25, 2026

When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY

  • Severe diarrhea with signs of dehydration such as dizziness, decreased urination, or dry mouth.
  • Severe abdominal pain or cramping.
  • Heavy vaginal bleeding or signs of shock during pregnancy use.
  • Swelling of face, lips, or throat, or difficulty breathing.
  • Uterine rupture symptoms: sudden severe abdominal pain, shoulder pain, or fainting.
  • Yellowing of skin or eyes (jaundice).
  • Decreased urine output.

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is mst tablet used for?

Misoprostol is a prostaglandin E1 analogue used to prevent NSAID-induced stomach ulcers and for pregnancy-related indications such as medical termination and labor induction. It works by reducing stomach acid and protecting the stomach lining, and by causing uterine contractions.

  • Generic Name: Misoprostol (NA)
  • Manufacturer: Synokem Pharmaceuticals Ltd
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 mst tablet के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा मिसोप्रोस्टोल नामक सक्रिय तत्व से बनी है और मुख्य रूप से एनएसएआईडी दवाओं के कारण होने वाले पेट के अल्सर को रोकने के लिए उपयोग की जाती है। यह गर्भपात, प्रसव प्रेरण और प्रसवोत्तर रक्तस्राव को रोकने के लिए भी इस्तेमाल की जाती है, लेकिन केवल डॉक्टर की देखरेख में।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के सामान्य दुष्प्रभावों में दस्त, पेट दर्द, मतली, गैस, सिरदर्द और मासिक धर्म में ऐंठन शामिल हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभावों में गंभीर दस्त, गर्भाशय का फटना और एलर्जी प्रतिक्रिया शामिल हो सकती है।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा का उपयोग केवल योग्य डॉक्टर की सलाह पर करें। गर्भवती महिलाओं को अल्सर की रोकथाम के लिए यह दवा नहीं लेनी चाहिए। दस्त से बचने के लिए इसे भोजन के साथ और सोने से पहले लें। मैग्नीशियम युक्त एंटासिड से बचें।

💡 Did You Know? The first generic medicine was introduced in India in 1970 after the Patents Act was amended.

💊 mst tablet Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Prevention of NSAID-induced gastric ulcers","description":"This medicine is used to prevent stomach ulcers in patients taking NSAIDs who are at high risk, such as the elderly or those with a history of ulcers.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Medical termination of pregnancy","description":"Used in combination with mifepristone or alone for termination of early pregnancy under medical supervision.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Induction of labor","description":"Used to ripen the cervix and induce labor in certain obstetric conditions.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Prevention of postpartum hemorrhage","description":"Used to prevent excessive bleeding after childbirth by promoting uterine contraction.","evidence":"Well-established"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Treatment of duodenal ulcers","description":"Sometimes prescribed off-label for healing duodenal ulcers, though not first-line.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Cervical ripening before surgical procedures","description":"Occasionally used off-label to prepare the cervix for procedures like dilation and curettage.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Primary treatment for: NSAID-induced gastric ulcers

Also treats: Duodenal ulcers, Medical termination of pregnancy, Induction of labor, Postpartum hemorrhage

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Misoprostol (NA)
Brand Namemst tablet
ManufacturerSynokem Pharmaceuticals Ltd
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassGASTRO INTESTINAL
Action ClassProstaglandin E1 (PGE1) analogue-obstetrics
Route of AdministrationOral
StorageStore at room temperature (15-30°C) in a dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep out of reach of children.
Shelf Life24 months from the date of manufacture.
WHO GuidelineMisoprostol is included in WHO guidelines for prevention and treatment of postpartum hemorrhage and for medical termination of pregnancy. It is not recommended for routine ulcer prevention in all patients.
ICMR GuidelineICMR guidelines recommend misoprostol for prevention of postpartum hemorrhage and for medical termination of pregnancy in specific settings. For ulcer prevention, it is reserved for high-risk patients.

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians

1
Always take this medicine with food and at bedtime to reduce the risk of diarrhea.
2
Women of childbearing age must use effective contraception while taking this medicine for ulcer prevention.
3
Avoid taking magnesium-containing antacids while on this medicine as they can worsen diarrhea.
4
Report any signs of severe diarrhea, dehydration, or allergic reactions to your doctor immediately.
5
Do not share this medicine with others, even if they have similar symptoms.
6
If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, inform your doctor before taking this medicine.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

✅
Stomach ulcer prevention
This medicine is commonly prescribed for this.
Likely Use
❌
Fever
This medicine is not a primary fever reducer.
Not Primary
✅
Pregnancy termination
Used under medical supervision for this indication.
Likely Use

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionMisoprostol is rapidly absorbed after oral administration. It undergoes extensive first-pass metabolism, which reduces its systemic bioavailability.
DistributionMisoprostol is distributed widely in the body, but specific volume of distribution data are not well established.
Protein BindingMisoprostol is less than 90% bound to plasma proteins, primarily to albumin.
MetabolismMisoprostol is metabolized in the liver and other tissues to misoprostol acid, which is the active metabolite. Further metabolism occurs via fatty acid oxidation.
Half-LifeThe elimination half-life of misoprostol acid is approximately 20-40 minutes.
ExcretionMisoprostol and its metabolites are primarily excreted in the urine.
BioavailabilityOral bioavailability of misoprostol is approximately 80-90% due to rapid absorption, but it is reduced by first-pass metabolism.
Onset of ActionGastric acid inhibition occurs within 30 minutes of oral administration. Uterine contractions begin within 30-60 minutes.
Peak Plasma TimePeak plasma concentration of misoprostol acid is reached in about 12-15 minutes after oral administration.
Duration of ActionThe acid-inhibitory effect lasts for about 3-6 hours. Uterine effects may last for several hours.

How It Works

Misoprostol is a synthetic prostaglandin E1 analogue that binds to prostaglandin receptors on parietal cells in the stomach, inhibiting gastric acid secretion. It also stimulates mucus and bicarbonate secretion and increases mucosal blood flow, thereby protecting the gastric mucosa. In the uterus, it binds to prostaglandin receptors and induces strong uterine contractions, which is the basis for its use in pregnancy-related indications.

Mechanism Steps

1
Binding to prostaglandin receptors: Misoprostol binds to prostaglandin E1 receptors on parietal cells and other tissues.
2
Inhibition of acid secretion: This binding reduces cyclic AMP levels in parietal cells, leading to decreased gastric acid production.
3
Mucosal protection: It stimulates mucus and bicarbonate secretion and increases blood flow to the stomach lining.
4
Uterine contraction: In the uterus, it activates myometrial prostaglandin receptors, causing contractions and cervical ripening.

💡 How to Take mst tablet

Strength: Immediate-release tablets containing misoprostol 100 mcg or 200 mcg.

1Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
2Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water.
3Take with food and at bedtime to reduce diarrhea.
4Do not crush or chew the tablet.
5If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, but do not double dose.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe usual adult dose for prevention of NSAID-induced ulcers is 200 mcg four times daily with food and at bedtime. For medical termination of pregnancy, the dose is 400-600 mcg orally or vaginally as prescribed. For induction of labor, 25-50 mcg orally or vaginally every 2-4 hours. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function.
Pediatric DosagePediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician.
Elderly DosageElderly patients may be more sensitive to the effects of this medicine, especially diarrhea. Dose adjustment may be necessary based on renal function. Consult a doctor.
Renal ImpairmentNo specific dose adjustment is established for renal impairment. Use with caution and monitor renal function.
Hepatic ImpairmentNo specific dose adjustment is established for hepatic impairment. Use with caution and monitor liver function.
Maximum Daily DoseFor ulcer prevention, the maximum recommended dose is 800 mcg per day (200 mcg four times daily). For other indications, the dose is determined by the clinician.

Dosage Timeline

🌅 Morning ❌ ☀️ Afternoon ❌ 🌆 Evening ❌ 🌙 Night ❌

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

With food
Take with meals
Reduces stomach upset and diarrhea.
Magnesium-rich foods
No specific interaction
Not clinically significant.

⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose

📌 Less than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Take the missed dose as soon as you remember.
💡 Continue with the regular schedule.
📌 More than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Skip the missed dose.
💡 Do not double dose to catch up.

⚠️ Side Effects of mst tablet

✅ Common Side Effects

Diarrhea (Common (10-40%))
Usually resolves within a few days. Take with food and at bedtime to minimize. Consult doctor if severe or persistent.
Abdominal pain (Common (10-20%))
May be relieved by taking with food. Consult doctor if severe.
Nausea (Common (5-10%))
Take with food. Consult doctor if persistent.
Flatulence (Common (5-10%))
Usually harmless. Consult doctor if bothersome.
Headache (Common (5-10%))
Usually resolves on its own. Consult doctor if severe.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Severe diarrhea with dehydration (Uncommon (1-5%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience signs of dehydration such as dizziness, decreased urination, or dry mouth.
Uterine rupture (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek emergency care if you experience severe abdominal pain, heavy vaginal bleeding, or signs of shock during pregnancy use.
Severe allergic reaction (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical help if you notice rash, itching, swelling of face or throat, or difficulty breathing.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Abnormal vaginal bleeding
Consult your doctor immediately if you experience unusual vaginal bleeding.
Fever
Monitor temperature and consult doctor if fever persists.
Changes in blood pressure
Monitor blood pressure if you have hypertension. Consult doctor if symptomatic.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
Magnesium-containing antacids Major
Oxytocin Major
NSAIDs Moderate
Rifampicin Moderate
Anticholinergics Minor

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Magnesium-containing antacids
  • Oxytocin

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • NSAIDs
  • Rifampicin

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Alcohol may increase the risk of stomach irritation and diarrhea. It is advisable to avoid alcohol while taking this medicine.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Known hypersensitivity to misoprostol or other prostaglandins","Pregnancy for ulcer prevention (unless for approved pregnancy-related indications)","Women of childbearing potential not using effective contraception for ulcer prevention","Severe diarrhea or inflammatory bowel disease"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["This medicine can cause abortion. Women of childbearing potential must use effective contraception.","Diarrhea is common and may be severe. Take with food and at bedtime.","Avoid magnesium-containing antacids as they can worsen diarrhea.","Use with caution in patients with cardiovascular disease, hypertension, or epilepsy.","Uterine rupture has been reported with use in pregnancy. Use with caution in women with prior uterine surgery.","Do not use for ulcer prevention in pregnant women."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

Misoprostol is excreted in breast milk in small amounts. It is generally considered safe during breastfeeding, but consult your doctor before use.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose may cause severe diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, and uterine contractions. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic. In case of overdose, seek immediate medical attention. There is no specific antidote.

⏰ Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double dose.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

This medicine should only be used under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. Women of childbearing potential must use effective contraception while taking this medicine for ulcer prevention, as it can cause abortion. Do not share this medicine with others. Take the tablet with food and at bedtime to reduce diarrhea. Avoid taking antacids containing magnesium while on this medicine, as they can worsen diarrhea. Inform your doctor if you have any underlying medical conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease, heart disease, or kidney disease. Do not use this medicine if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant unless specifically prescribed for pregnancy-related indications.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients may be more susceptible to diarrhea and dehydration. Monitor fluid intake and renal function. Dose adjustment may be necessary.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

This medicine can cause abortion. Women planning pregnancy should avoid this medicine for ulcer prevention. If you are planning pregnancy, discuss alternative treatments with your doctor.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

This medicine may be used to prevent stress ulcers after surgery. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully. Monitor for side effects like diarrhea.

🦷 Dental Procedures

Inform your dentist if you are taking this medicine. No specific precautions are required, but maintain good oral hygiene.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Maintain a healthy weight to reduce joint stress if taking NSAIDs.
🥗
Avoid alcohol and smoking as they can worsen stomach ulcers.
😴
Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
💧
Stay hydrated to prevent dehydration from diarrhea.
🧘
Get adequate sleep to support overall health.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

No specific exercise restrictions are associated with this medicine. However, if you experience diarrhea or abdominal pain, avoid strenuous exercise until symptoms resolve.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Include fiber-rich foods to manage diarrhea.
Avoid spicy and fatty foods that can irritate the stomach.
Stay well hydrated.
Limit caffeine and alcohol.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine may cause diarrhea or abdominal pain, which can affect your daily activities. If you experience these side effects, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you feel better.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor. If you experience severe side effects, contact your doctor immediately. For ulcer prevention, the duration of treatment is determined by your doctor based on your risk factors.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of this medicine for ulcer prevention is generally safe but may cause persistent diarrhea. Monitoring for dehydration and electrolyte imbalance is advised. Regular follow-up with your doctor is recommended to assess the need for continued therapy.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Proton pump inhibitors

Can be used as an alternative for ulcer prevention.

Evidence: Well-established
H2 receptor antagonists

Another class of medicines for ulcer prevention.

Evidence: Well-established

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

No specific interactions with vaccines are known. However, consult your doctor before receiving any vaccine while on this medicine.

📦 Storage Guide

✅ DO

Store at room temperature (15-30°C)

❌ DON'T

Do not refrigerate unless specified

✅ DO

Keep in original container

❌ DON'T

Do not transfer to unmarked containers

✅ DO

Keep away from direct sunlight

❌ DON'T

Do not store in bathroom cabinet

✈️ Traveling with This Medicine

When traveling, carry this medicine in its original packaging with a copy of your prescription. Store at room temperature and protect from direct sunlight. If crossing time zones, adjust dosing schedule as advised by your doctor. Check customs regulations for carrying prescription medicines.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 55-year-old man with arthritis taking NSAIDs for pain relief.
He was prescribed this medicine to prevent stomach ulcers. He initially experienced mild diarrhea but it subsided after taking it with food. He continued the medicine and did not develop any ulcers.
💡 Lesson: Taking this medicine with food can minimize side effects and ensure its effectiveness in preventing ulcers.
👤 A 28-year-old woman with an unwanted pregnancy of 8 weeks.
She was prescribed this medicine along with another drug for medical termination of pregnancy under medical supervision. The process was successful, and she was monitored for complications.
💡 Lesson: Medical termination of pregnancy should always be done under medical supervision to manage potential risks.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: For ulcer prevention, it starts working within 30 minutes, but full protective effect may take a few days. For pregnancy-related uses, effects occur within hours.

Q: Can I take this medicine if I am pregnant?

A: This medicine is contraindicated in pregnancy for ulcer prevention as it can cause abortion. However, it may be prescribed for medical termination or labor induction under strict medical supervision.

Q: What should I do if I experience diarrhea?

A: Diarrhea is common. Take the medicine with food and at bedtime. If diarrhea is severe or persistent, consult your doctor.

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

  • Can I take this medicine long-term?
  • Will it affect my kidney function?
  • Can I drive after taking this medicine?
  • Does it interact with my blood pressure medicine?
  • What if I miss a dose?
  • Can I drink alcohol while taking this?

🔄 Substitutes for mst tablet

View All

Alternative brands with exact same active ingredient:

Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

  • Myth: Misoprostol is only for abortion.
    Fact: Misoprostol is also used to prevent stomach ulcers and for other medical conditions.
  • Myth: Misoprostol is safe to take without medical supervision.
    Fact: Misoprostol should only be taken under medical supervision due to serious risks.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Misoprostol 100 mcg tablet
  • Misoprostol 200 mcg tablet

Brand Alternatives

  • Cytotec
  • Misoprost
  • MTP Kit

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"Misoprostol","class":"Prostaglandin E1 analogue","primary_use":"Prevention of NSAID-induced ulcers","route":"Oral"},{"medicine":"Omeprazole","class":"Proton pump inhibitor","primary_use":"Treatment of ulcers","route":"Oral"},{"medicine":"Ranitidine","class":"H2 receptor antagonist","primary_use":"Treatment of ulcers","route":"Oral"}]

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