What are the effects and side effects of misoprostol tablets?

Misoprostol tablets are typically used in combination with mifepristone tablets for medical abortion in women with pregnancies of up to 49 days’ duration. After administration, misoprostol promotes cervical softening, increases intrauterine pressure and uterine tone, and induces contraction of uterine smooth muscle—thereby facilitating uterine contractions and expulsion of the gestational sac. Side effects arise from concurrent stimulation of gastrointestinal smooth muscle, leading to nausea, vomiting, and gastric discomfort; additional adverse effects may include dizziness, fatigue, and headache.