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Cytotec

Cytotec

Misoprostol

Misoprostol tablets for preventing gastric ulcers caused by NSAID painkillers. It also makes the womb contract, so doctors use it to complete an early miscarriage and, usually after mifepristone, for medical abortion.

All strengths and pack prices
StrengthPackPricePer unit
100mcg20 tablets$53.00$2.65
100mcg30 tablets$68.00$2.27
100mcg60 tablets$118.00$1.97
100mcg90 tablets$165.00$1.83
100mcg120 tablets$213.00$1.78
100mcg180 tablets$310.00$1.72
100mcg270 tablets$455.00$1.69
100mcg360 tablets$560.00$1.56
200mcg10 tablets$72.00$7.20
200mcg20 tablets$87.00$4.35
200mcg30 tablets$144.00$4.80
200mcg60 tablets$260.00$4.33
200mcg90 tablets$360.00$4.00
200mcg120 tablets$432.00$3.60
200mcg180 tablets$576.00$3.20
200mcg270 tablets$706.00$2.61
200mcg360 tablets$792.00$2.20
Active ingredient
Misoprostol
Route
Oral use
Form
Tablet
Strengths
100mcg · 200mcg

Cytotec is the reference name. You receive a generic with the same active ingredient and strength.

No prescription needed: we place your order for Cytotec on your behalf.

Alternative names
misoprostol
Therapeutic class
Prostaglandin E1 Analog
Pharmacological class
Cytoprotective Agent
Contraindications
a pregnancy that is to continue; hypersensitivity to prostaglandins
Minor side effects
abdominal pain; diarrhoea; nausea
Moderate side effects
flatulence; headache; uterine cramping
Serious side effects
uterine rupture, requires immediate medical attention
Dosage forms
Tablet
Administration route
Oral use
Originator
Searle
Onset time
30 minutes
Duration
3–4 hours
Storage instructions
Store below 25°C.
Drug interactions
Antacids (Magnesium)
Age restrictions
Approved for adults.
Known off-label uses

medical abortion (after mifepristone, or alone); labor induction; postpartum haemorrhage prevention

Precautions and warnings

for miscarriage or abortion, only after a scan confirms the pregnancy is in the womb and how far along it is; heavy bleeding (more than two pads an hour) or a fever over 38°C needs emergency care

Patient summary

Misoprostol tablets for preventing gastric ulcers caused by NSAID painkillers. It also makes the womb contract, so doctors use it to complete an early miscarriage and, usually after mifepristone, for medical abortion.

Mechanism of action

Suppresses gastric acid output and boosts mucous and bicarbonate synthesis, preserving cell integrity of stomach membranes.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Pregnancy: Causes contractions and can end a pregnancy, so never take it in a pregnancy that is to continue. Breastfeeding: Avoid.

FAQ

Will I receive the original Cytotec?

No. Cytotec is the original brand, made by Searle, and Direct Meds uses the name to identify the medicine: you receive a generic with the same active ingredient (misoprostol) at the strength you choose. The generic brand and manufacturer depend on available stock.

How much does Cytotec cost in South Africa?

It depends on the strength and pack. Cytotec comes in 100mcg and 200mcg strengths, in packs of 10 to 360 tablets, and the price of every option is shown above. Prices are set in US dollars and converted. Larger packs cost less per tablet.

Payment and prices →

What is Cytotec used for?

Cytotec contains misoprostol, used for nsaid-induced gastric ulcer prevention and miscarriage.

How quickly does Cytotec work?

Misoprostol usually starts to work within 30 minutes, and its effect lasts about 3 to 4 hours. The exact timing differs between people.

Does Cytotec have side effects?

Yes. The common side effects of misoprostol are abdominal pain, diarrhoea and nausea. Less common ones include flatulence, headache and uterine cramping. Serious but less common side effects include uterine rupture, which needs urgent medical attention.

What does Cytotec interact with?

Misoprostol can interact with antacids (Magnesium). Tell your doctor or pharmacist about every medicine you take before you start taking Cytotec.

Can I buy Cytotec over the counter in South Africa?

Online, yes: Direct Meds does not ask for a prescription to order Cytotec. We are a broker, not a dispensing pharmacy. We arrange orders and delivery with our affiliated supplier on your behalf.

Ordering without a prescription →

Do you deliver Cytotec to South Africa?

Yes. Our affiliated supplier delivers across South Africa. Estimated delivery is 7 days with Express Delivery, which includes online tracking, or up to 3 weeks with Regular Delivery.

How ordering works →

Is Cytotec an abortion pill?

Cytotec contains misoprostol. Doctors use misoprostol, usually after mifepristone, to end an early pregnancy (medical abortion), and on its own to help an early miscarriage pass. It is also used to protect the stomach against ulcers from anti-inflammatory painkillers. A doctor confirms how far the pregnancy is and decides the dose. Bleeding that fills a pad every hour, or pain that stays severe after painkillers, needs emergency care.

What you will receive

Cytotec names the medicine you are looking for. What ships is a generic version of it.

  • A generic containing Misoprostol at the strength you pick.
  • Which generic brand and maker ships depends on stock and destination.
  • Check the active ingredient, strength, form, pack, seal, batch and expiry when it arrives.

How we compare medicine brands and generics