How should I take the pills if I only have misoprostol?

Until 12 weeks of pregnancy, it is recommended to have at least 12 pills of misoprostol (2400mcg in total). It can be useful to have even 16 or 18 pills, in case an extra doses are needed.

To use the pills most effectively:

1. Put 4 pills of 200 micrograms (in total 800 mcg) misoprostol under the tongue. The pills should remain in place for at least 30 minutes, or until the tablets are dissolved (misoprostol sometimes dissolves in as little as 10-15 minutes - this will not make them less effective). After 30 minutes the remains of the pills can be swallowed.*
2. After 3 hours put another 4 pills of misoprostol under the tongue. The pills should be kept in place until they dissolve or for at least 30 minutes.*
3. After 3 hours put another 4 pills of misoprostol under the tongue again for a third time. The pills should be kept in place until they dissolve, or for at least 30 minutes.* 

Usually 3 doses of misoprostol are enough to end the pregnancy. However, if there is no cramping or bleeding, the doses can be continued every three hours as needed.

If the abortion has not happened after 5-6 doses, or after 24 hours have pased, it may be useful to get an ultrasound to confirm that the pregnancy is located inside the uterus.

*If the misoprostol pills also contain painkiller diclofenac (as for example, Arthrotec pills), it is strongly advised to spit out the remains of the pills after 30 minutes, rather than swallowing them.