Cytotec (misoprostol) is a medication that was originally developed to prevent stomach ulcers in people taking anti-inflammatory drugs. However, it was discovered that Cytotec can also be used to induce abortions, as it causes the cervix to soften and the uterus to contract. This article provides detailed information on the different methods of administering Cytotec for abortion purposes.

What is Cytotec?

Cytotec contains the active ingredient misoprostol, which is a prostaglandin medication. It works by:

• Softening and dilating the cervix
• Causing contractions of the uterus

These effects help to expel the contents of the uterus, including the pregnancy.

Cytotec is produced by Pfizer and comes in tablets of 100mcg and 200mcg. The recommended dosages for abortion depend on the gestational age of the pregnancy.

Oral Administration

Taking Cytotec tablets by mouth is one method of administration for early abortion.

How to Take Cytotec Orally

• Cytotec should be taken on an empty stomach with a glass of water. Food can decrease the absorption and efficacy.
• The tablets can either be swallowed whole or dissolved under the tongue.
• If dissolving under the tongue, hold the tablets there for 30 minutes before swallowing any remnants with water.

Oral Dosage

The oral dosage recommendations are:

• For pregnancies up to 9 weeks, take 800mcg (4 tablets) initially, followed by another 800mcg 3 hours later.
• For pregnancies between 9-13 weeks, take 800mcg initially, followed by doses of 800mcg at 3 hour intervals for a total of 2400mcg (12 tablets).

Oral Administration Tips

• Take an anti-nausea medication like Gravol 30-60 minutes before the first Cytotec dose to prevent vomiting.
• Have maxi pads available, as bleeding usually starts within 1-4 hours.
• Be prepared for painful cramping, which can onset quickly after taking Cytotec. Pain medication can provide relief.
• Remain lying down for at least 30 minutes after each dose to improve absorption.
• If there is no bleeding after 3 hours, an additional dose may be recommended.

Vaginal Administration

Inserting Cytotec tablets into the vagina is another method of administration for abortion.

How to Insert Cytotec Vaginally

• Wash hands thoroughly before insertion.
• Insert the tablets as high up in the vagina as possible, one by one.
• Insert while lying down if possible.
• Allow the tablets to dissolve completely over 1-3 hours.

Vaginal Dosage

The vaginal dosage recommendations are:

• For pregnancies up to 9 weeks, insert 800mcg (4 tablets) high into the vagina.
• For pregnancies between 9-13 weeks, insert 800mcg and repeat with another 800mcg dose 3 hours later.

Vaginal Administration Tips

• Remain lying down for at least 30 minutes after insertion.
• An additional 400-800mcg dose may be recommended after 3 hours if no bleeding occurs.
• Change pads frequently to monitor bleeding. Heavy bleeding can occur within 1-4 hours.
• Pain medication can help relieve painful cramps that accompany the bleeding.
• Avoid intercourse, tampon use, and douching for 1 week after taking Cytotec.

Sublingual Administration

Taking Cytotec tablets under the tongue is a third option for inducing abortion.

How to Take Cytotec Sublingually

• Place the recommended number of Cytotec tablet(s) under the tongue.
• Allow the tablets to completely dissolve over 30 minutes before swallowing any remnants.
• Drink some water to help swallow any remaining pieces.

Sublingual Dosage

The sublingual dosage recommendations are the same as the oral dosage recommendations:

• For pregnancies up to 9 weeks, take 800mcg (4 tablets) initially, followed by another 800mcg 3 hours later.
• For pregnancies between 9-13 weeks, take 800mcg initially, followed by doses of 800mcg at 3 hour intervals for a total of 2400mcg (12 tablets).

Sublingual Administration Tips

• Don’t eat, drink, or swallow for 30 minutes before and after taking the dose to maximize absorption.
• Set a timer for 30 minutes to ensure the tablets dissolve fully before swallowing.
• Have anti-nausea medication and pain relief on hand. Side effects often include cramping and nausea.
• Bleeding usually occurs within 1-4 hours, so use pads to monitor.
• Avoid brushing teeth, drinking, and eating for 30 minutes after dose.

What to Expect After Taking Cytotec

Here is an overview of what to expect after taking Cytotec, regardless of the method:

• Cramping and bleeding – This usually starts within 1-4 hours after the first dose. Bleeding can be heavy with clots. Cramping is often very painful.
• Pregnancy tissue – For pregnancies over 8 weeks, you may see grayish tissue that is the pregnancy being expelled.
• Side effects – Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, dizziness, chills, and fever can occur in the first 24 hours.
• Bleeding – Heavy bleeding and clotting typically lasts 4-6 hours. Spotting can persist for 4-6 weeks.
• Follow-up – It’s important to follow-up with your provider 1-2 weeks later to confirm the abortion is complete.

Frequently Asked Questions

How effective is Cytotec for abortion?

When used correctly, Cytotec is up to 98% effective for first-trimester abortion. Effectiveness declines as pregnancy progresses.

How long does it take for Cytotec to work?

Bleeding usually starts within 1-4 hours after taking Cytotec. The pregnancy is often expelled within 24 hours, but it can take longer.

Is Cytotec painful?

Most women experience very painful cramping and contractions when taking Cytotec. Have a pain relief plan in place.

Where can I buy Cytotec?

Cytotec may be acquired through international online pharmacies, located by searching “comprar cytotect” or “comprar cytotec original“. In some countries it is available over-the-counter.

Is Cytotec safe?

When used correctly under medical supervision, Cytotec is generally safe. However, side effects like bleeding, fever and diarrhea can sometimes be severe.

The Bottom Line

Cytotec can be administered orally, vaginally or sublingually to induce abortion. The dosage and method depends on the gestational age of the pregnancy. Proper use under medical supervision provides the safest and most effective outcomes. Seeking follow-up care is essential to confirm complete abortion and monitor for potential complications.

References

[1] WHO Model List of Essential Medicines. World Health Organization. https://apps.who.int/iris/handle/10665/325771

[2] Raymond, E.G., et al. “First-trimester medical abortion with mifepristone 200 mg and misoprostol: a systematic review.” Contraception 87.1 (2013): 26-37.

[3] Safe Abortion: Technical and Policy Guidance for Health Systems. World Health Organization. https://www.who.int/reproductivehealth/publications/unsafe_abortion/9789241548434/en/

[4] Holmgren, K. “Oral, vaginal or sublingual misoprostol for medical abortion up to 9 weeks of gestation.” International Journal of Gynecology & Obstetrics 145.2 (2019): 170-175.

[5] Tang, O.S., et al. “Pharmacokinetics of repeated doses of misoprostol.” Contraception 79.2 (2009): 106-110.

How-to-Administer-Cytotec-for-Abortion

Oral Administration

• Place 2 tablets of 200 mcg Cytotec under the tongue and let dissolve completely (30 mins)
• Swallow any remnants with water
• Repeat with 2 more tablets after 3 hours
• For pregnancies 9-13 weeks, repeat protocol for total of 12 tablets over 9 hours

Vaginal Administration

• Insert 4 tablets (800 mcg) high into vagina
• Allow to dissolve for 3 hours
• May repeat with 4 more tablets after 3 hours if no bleeding

Sublingual Administration

• Place tablets under tongue and allow to dissolve completely (30 mins)
• No drinking/eating for additional 30 mins to maximize absorption
• Follow same dosage protocol as oral method

What to Expect

• Cramping and bleeding starts in 1-4 hours
• Pregnancy tissue expelled within 24 hours
• Heavy bleeding and clotting for 4-6 hrs
• Side effects like nausea, vomiting, fever
• Spotting can persist for 4-6 weeks

FAQs

How effective is Cytotec?

• Up to 98% effective in first trimester

How long does it take to work?

• Bleeding usually starts within 1-4 hours

Is Cytotec painful?

• Yes, severe cramping is common

Where can I access Cytotec?

• Some international online pharmacies
• Over-the-counter in some countries

Is it safe?

• Generally safe under medical supervision
• Side effects can sometimes be severe

How-Cytotec-Works-for-Abortion

Cytotec contains the medication misoprostol which is a prostaglandin. It works by:

• Softening and dilating the cervix
• Causing uterine contractions

These effects help expel the contents of the uterus, terminating the pregnancy.

Cytotec comes in 100mcg and 200mcg tablets. The dosage used depends on the gestational age.

Cytotec-Dosage-Recommendations

Up to 9 weeks pregnant:

• 800mcg (4 tablets) initially
• Repeat 800mcg dose after 3 hours
• 1600mcg total

9-13 weeks pregnant:

• 800mcg initially
• Repeat 800mcg dose every 3 hours
• Total 2400mcg (12 tablets) over 9 hours

Where-to-Access-Cytotec

Cytotec may be available:

• From international online pharmacies – search for “comprar cytotect” or “comprar cytotec original”
• Over-the-counter in some countries without prescription
• From local providers in some regions

Access varies globally based on country laws and restrictions. Seek reputable sources.

Is-Cytotec-Safe?

When used correctly under medical supervision:

• Cytotec is generally safe
• Up to 98% effective

However side effects can be severe:

• Heavy bleeding
• Severe cramping
• Nausea/vomiting/diarrhea
• Fever/chills

Proper use is important for safety. Follow-up care is essential.