Misoprostol is a type of drug called a prostaglandin E1 analog that protects the mucosal
lining of the stomach and intestines. It is either used alone or in combination with
non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
to prevent injury to stomach and intestinal tissue caused by these agents.
Summary of
Interactions with Vitamins, Herbs, and Foods
In some cases, an herb or supplement may appear in more than one category, which may seem
contradictory. For clarification, read the full article for details about the summarized
interactions.
Avoid: Adverse interaction—Avoid these supplements when taking this
medication because taking them together may cause undesirable or dangerous results. |
Magnesium
|
| Depletion or interference |
None known
|
| Side effect reduction/prevention |
None known
|
| Supportive interaction |
None known
|
| Reduced drug
absorption/bioavailability |
None known
|
An asterisk (*) next to an item in the summary indicates that the
interaction is supported only by weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific
evidence.
Interactions with Dietary Supplements
Magnesium
A common side effect of misoprostol is
diarrhea, which is aggravated by taking magnesium.1 Consequently, individuals
who experience diarrhea while taking misoprostol should avoid magnesium supplementation.
Interactions with Foods and Other Compounds
Food
Taking misoprostol with food may lower the maximum concentration of the drug in the blood and
delay (though not decrease) absorption up to ten hours.2 3 However,
since ingestion of food with misoprostol may reduce the incidence of diarrhea, it is usually recommended that the drug be
taken with a meal.4
References:1. Sifton DW, ed. Physicians Desk Reference. Montvale, NJ:
Medical Economics Company, Inc., 2000, 2888–91.
2. Karim A, Smith M. Biopharmaceutical profile of diclofenac-misoprostol
combination tablet, Arthrotec. Scand J Rheumatol Suppl 1992;96:37–48.
3. Arns PA. Misoprostol. Am J Med Sci 1991;301:133–7.
4. Garris RE, Kirkwood CF. Misoprostol: a prostaglandin E1 analog.
Clin Pharm 1989;8:627–44.