Misoprostol (Cytotec) & Mifepristone — Evidence-Based Info for the Philippines
Plain-language medical context, benefits, safety, and FAQs. This page is informational only; it does not provide medical or legal advice. Always consult a licensed clinician and follow Philippine FDA guidance and local laws.
Overview
Two Medicines, Different Roles
Misoprostol is a prostaglandin E1 analogue. Its approved indications include reducing the risk of NSAID-induced gastric ulcers. In obstetrics and gynecology, under clinician supervision and in line with guidelines and regulations, it may be used for postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) prevention/treatment or cervical ripening.
Mifepristone is a progesterone-receptor antagonist. In some settings, it is used with misoprostol for medical abortion under clinical oversight, subject to specific national rules. Access and legal status vary by country; in the Philippines, follow local laws and Philippine FDA guidance.
Primary Topic
Misoprostol (Cytotec): Mechanism and Uses
Benefits & Approved Uses
- Reduces risk of NSAID-induced gastric ulcers in at-risk adults.
- Obstetric uses (under supervision): Part of guideline-supported options in PPH prevention/treatment and cervical ripening/induction.
- Stability & Cost-Effectiveness: Widely used globally in low-resource settings for certain obstetric indications per WHO/FIGO guidance.
Note: Exact use and availability vary by country; follow local policy and facility protocols.
How It Works
Misoprostol is a synthetic prostaglandin E1. It increases gastric mucosal protection and, in the uterus, can stimulate uterine contractions and soften the cervix—hence its role in specific OB-GYN contexts under clinical oversight.
Safety & Cautions
- Pregnancy Warning (for GI use): Misoprostol is contraindicated for ulcer prophylaxis in pregnancy due to its abortifacient effects.
- Adverse Effects: Common side effects include cramping, diarrhea, chills, and fever.
- Clinician Guidance is Essential for any OB-GYN indication. Seek urgent care for severe pain, heavy bleeding (soaking ≥2 pads/hour), fainting, or high fever.
Related Medicine
Mifepristone: Role and Differences
What It Does
Mifepristone blocks progesterone receptors. In some health systems, it is prescribed with misoprostol for medical abortion up to an early gestational age under strict program requirements. Availability and rules differ by country.
Key Differences
- Mechanism: Progesterone blockade (mifepristone) vs. prostaglandin analogue (misoprostol).
- Regulatory Framework: Often has tighter controls than misoprostol; check local regulations.
- Clinical Pairing: Guidelines often favor the combination for higher efficacy in certain indications, while others outline misoprostol-only pathways.
Philippines
Regulatory & Safety Reminders for the Philippines
- Avoid Unregistered Products: The Philippine FDA has issued public health warnings against purchasing unregistered “Cytotec” products. Always verify authorization and consult licensed providers.
- Follow National Laws: Access, indications, and dispensing are governed by Philippine law and FDA regulations. Medical decisions must be made by licensed physicians within accredited facilities.
- Where to Seek Care: DOH- and PhilHealth-accredited hospitals/clinics, OB-GYNs for gynecological care, and gastroenterologists for GI indications.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Misoprostol is a prescription drug and its availability and use are governed by Philippine law and FDA regulations. The FDA has warned against purchasing unregistered products; always consult a licensed clinician and obtain medicines only from authorized pharmacies.
Its primary approved benefit is reducing the risk of NSAID-induced gastric ulcers. In hospital settings under clinician supervision, it is also a key part of guideline-supported strategies for obstetric care, such as managing postpartum hemorrhage.
Mifepristone works by blocking the hormone progesterone. In some health systems, it is paired with misoprostol for medical abortion under strict rules. Its legal status and availability differ by country; always follow Philippine laws and consult licensed physicians.
No. It is unsafe and illegal to purchase prescription medications from unregistered online sellers. Use only FDA-authorized channels and valid prescriptions from licensed clinicians to protect your health and comply with the law.
Nationwide Relevance
Information for Key Regions in the Philippines
The safety warnings and regulatory information on this page apply nationwide. Regardless of your location, always consult with a local, DOH-licensed physician for medical guidance. The following lists key areas where this information is relevant for patients seeking care from authorized providers.
Luzon
- Metro Manila (NCR)
- Quezon City
- Makati
- Baguio
- Pampanga
- Laguna
- Cavite
- Rizal
- Bulacan
- Batangas
- Pangasinan
- La Union
Visayas
- Cebu City
- Mandaue
- Lapu-Lapu
- Iloilo City
- Bacolod
- Tacloban
- Bohol
- Negros Oriental
- Leyte
- Samar
- Palawan
- Aklan
Mindanao
- Davao City
- Cagayan de Oro
- Zamboanga City
- General Santos
- Iligan
- Butuan
- Cotabato City
- Misamis Oriental
- South Cotabato
- Lanao del Norte
- Maguindanao
- Sarangani
References
Evidence & Policy Sources
- World Health Organization. Abortion care guideline & self-management update (2022).
- International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO). Recommendations on the management of postpartum haemorrhage (2022).
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Information about Mifepristone for Medical Termination of Pregnancy.
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Cytotec (misoprostol) label — pregnancy warnings and GI indication.
- Philippine Food and Drug Administration. Public Health Advisories on unregistered Cytotec/misoprostol products.