Cytotec (misoprostol) is a prescription drug manufactured by Searle, which has many indicated uses, including, to addressing gastric ulcers in patients taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (“NSAIDs”). Additionally, it is used to induce labor; however, its use in this manner is considered controversial at best. Indeed, the use of cytotec in induction of labor (or for missed miscarriage) has been pointed to as the cause of injuries including, uterine rupture, hemorrhaging, exsanguinations, and, even death.
How does Cytotec Work
Cytotec, because it has different uses, works in different ways, depending upon the intended use.
NSAID Induced Ulcer Preventions
When used to prevent NSAID induced ulcers, cytotec functions by affecting gastric parietal cells, and in doing so, inhibits secretion of gastric acid, which sets in to motion a process that, in effect, reduces activity on the apical surface of those cells. That process thereby reduces the risk of ulceration.
Inducing Labor
When used to induce labor, cytotec functions by forcing the uterus of the patient to contract, while simultaneously causing the cervix of the patient to “ripen” or thin. Its use in inducing labor, though controversial, is attractive to physicians with patients who have yet to experience dilation of their cervix. This is because cytotec, unlike other labor inducing drugs, such as oxytocin, affects the patients cervix.
What are the Side Effects of Cytotec?
The original insert to the label of cytotec carried an explicit warning: “DO NOT use Cytotec if: you are allergic to any ingredients in Cytotec or to similar medicines (prostaglandins); [or] you are pregnant;” and, it went on further to state that, patients should “[t]ell their doctor or pharmacist if … you are planning to become pregnant or are breast-feeding.” However, despite such an emphatic initial warning, later uses of cytotec included labor induction.
That said, due to the pervasive contra-indicated use of the drug, reports continued to surface, which included indications of side effects including, but not limited to amniotic fluid embolism, which is the fifth leading cause of maternal death.
Legal Help for Cytotec Drug Injury Victims
If you or a loved one suffers from injuries due to the use of Cytotec, contact a Cytotec drug injury lawyer at the Finz firm now toll free at (855) TOP-FIRM or simply fill out the Free Cytotec Case Evaluation form.
