What are the side effects can patients expect?
Bleeding and cramping are an expected part of ending a pregnancy. Patients can expect bleeding or spotting for an average of 9-16 days and may last for up to 30 days. Bleeding may be similar to, or greater than, a normal heavy period. The most common side effects include nausea, headache, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, fatigue, and back pain. You should ensure that your patient knows whom to call and what to do, including going to an Emergency Room with her Medication Guide if none of the provided contacts are reachable, if she experiences sustained fever, severe abdominal pain, prolonged heavy bleeding, syncope, or general malaise more than 24 hours after taking misoprostol. Side effects lessen after Day 3 and usually gone by Day 14. You should discuss with your patient how to manage any pain or other side effects. For more detailed information on adverse reactions you may want to review the Prescribing Information.
