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Misoprostol

Prescription
Prostaglandin E1 analogue (gastroprotectant)
Last reviewed 19 Apr 2026 · PetCare.AI Editorial Team
Species
Dog, Cat
Brands
3 available
Interactions
1 documented
Formulations
2

Mechanism of action

Synthetic prostaglandin E1 analogue that enhances mucosal defense by stimulating mucus and bicarbonate secretion, promoting mucosal blood flow, and inhibiting gastric acid secretion

At a glance

Class
Prostaglandin E1 analogue (gastroprotectant)
Schedule
Prescription
Storage
Store below 25°C, in original blister packaging

Dosing

🐕

Dog

NSAID-induced GI ulceration prevention / GI ulcer treatment
Dose
2–5 mcg/kg
Route
PO
Frequency
TID to QID
Max dose
200 mcg/dose; 800 mcg/day
Duration: Duration of NSAID therapy; 4–8 weeks for active ulcers
🐈

Cat

GI ulcer prophylaxis (rarely used)
Dose
2–5 mcg/kg
Route
PO
Frequency
BID to TID
Max dose
50 mcg/dose; 150 mcg/day
Duration: As needed

Formulations

💊

Tablet — 2

Strength
100mcg
Available in India
Strength
200mcg
Available in India

Storage

Store below 25°C, in original blister packaging

Safety

Absolute contraindications — do not use

  • Pregnancy
    Abortifacient — causes uterine contractions
  • Known hypersensitivity to prostaglandins

Use with caution

  • Breeding animals
    Handle with gloves; women of childbearing age should not handle

Adverse effects

Common
Diarrhoea (dose-dependent)
Abdominal cramping
Vomiting
Serious
Abortion/premature labor
Uterine rupture

Monitoring parameters

GI symptomsFecal occult bloodConfirm non-pregnant status before use

Interactions

Major — 1

Oxytocin
major
Both cause uterine contraction. Misoprostol (PGE1 analog) + oxytocin: excessive uterine stimulation risking uterine rupture.
Management: Do not combine without careful obstetric monitoring. If used sequentially for dystocia, allow one to take effect before adding the other.

Brands

International

Cytotec
Pfizer

India

Misoprost
Cipla
Cytomis
Mankind

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

›What is Misoprostol?
Misoprostol is a prostaglandin e1 analogue (gastroprotectant) used in pets. Synthetic prostaglandin E1 analogue that enhances mucosal defense by stimulating mucus and bicarbonate secretion, promoting mucosal blood flow, and inhibiting gastric acid secretion
›What is Misoprostol used for in pets?
Misoprostol is used in veterinary medicine for: NSAID-induced GI ulceration prevention / GI ulcer treatment; GI ulcer prophylaxis (rarely used).
›What is the Misoprostol dose for dogs?
For dogs, Misoprostol is typically dosed as follows — NSAID-induced GI ulceration prevention / GI ulcer treatment: 2–5 mcg/kg PO TID to QID. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Misoprostol dose for cats?
For cats, Misoprostol is typically dosed as follows — GI ulcer prophylaxis (rarely used): 2–5 mcg/kg PO BID to TID. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What are the side effects of Misoprostol?
Common: Diarrhoea (dose-dependent), Abdominal cramping, Vomiting. Serious (call your vet immediately): Abortion/premature labor, Uterine rupture.
›Does Misoprostol need a prescription?
Yes. Misoprostol is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.
›When should Misoprostol not be used?
Do not use Misoprostol if: Pregnancy; Known hypersensitivity to prostaglandins.

References

References

Textbooks & handbooks

  • Plumb, D.C. Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2023.
  • Vail, D.M., Thamm, D.H., & Liptak, J.M. (eds.). Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology. 6th ed., Saunders/Elsevier, 2020.
  • Riviere, J.E., & Papich, M.G. (eds.). Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2018.
  • National Research Council. Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press, Washington DC, 2006.
  • The Merck Veterinary Manual. Merck & Co., Online edition. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/

Clinical guidelines & consensus

  • Fletcher, D.J., Boller, M., Brainard, B.M., et al. "RECOVER Evidence and Knowledge Gap Analysis on Veterinary CPR." Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, 2012;22(S1):S102–S131.
  • American Animal Hospital Association. 2018 AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats. AAHA Press.

Journals & peer-reviewed studies

  • Hogan, D.F., Fox, P.R., Jacob, K., et al. "Secondary prevention of cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism in the cat: The FAT CAT study." Journal of Veterinary Cardiology, 2015;17(Suppl 1):S306–S317.
  • Boswood, A., Häggström, J., Gordon, S.G., et al. "Effect of Pimobendan in Dogs with Preclinical Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease and Cardiomegaly: The EPIC Study — A Randomized Clinical Trial." Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2016;30(6):1765–1779.
  • ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxicology and Poison Management Guidelines. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control

Regulatory & approvals

  • Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), Government of India. Veterinary Drug Approval Registry, 1969–2026. Directorate General of Health Services. https://cdsco.gov.in/

Databases

  • Washington State University, College of Veterinary Medicine. Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory (VCPL) — MDR1 Multidrug Sensitivity Database. https://vcpl.vetmed.wsu.edu/
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet. Find a vet near you →