Oxoprostol

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia


Overview[edit | edit source]

Oxoprostol is a synthetic analog of prostaglandin E1, which is used primarily for its gastroprotective and uterotonic properties. It is a compound that has been studied for its potential applications in the prevention of gastric ulcers and in obstetrics for labor induction and the management of postpartum hemorrhage.

Chemical Structure and Properties[edit | edit source]

Oxoprostol is a derivative of prostaglandin E1, characterized by modifications that enhance its stability and bioavailability. The chemical structure of Oxoprostol includes a methyl ester group, which is responsible for its increased resistance to metabolic degradation compared to natural prostaglandins.

Mechanism of Action[edit | edit source]

Oxoprostol exerts its effects by binding to specific prostaglandin receptors in the body. In the gastrointestinal tract, it promotes the secretion of mucus and bicarbonate, which protect the gastric lining from acid damage. In the uterus, Oxoprostol induces contractions by increasing intracellular calcium levels in uterine smooth muscle cells.

Clinical Uses[edit | edit source]

Gastroprotection[edit | edit source]

Oxoprostol is used to prevent gastric ulcers, particularly in patients who are taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Its ability to enhance mucosal defenses makes it a valuable agent in reducing the risk of NSAID-induced gastric damage.

Obstetrics[edit | edit source]

In obstetrics, Oxoprostol is used for labor induction and the management of postpartum hemorrhage. Its uterotonic properties make it effective in stimulating uterine contractions, which can facilitate childbirth and reduce bleeding after delivery.

Side Effects and Precautions[edit | edit source]

Common side effects of Oxoprostol include gastrointestinal disturbances such as diarrhea and abdominal pain. In obstetric use, careful monitoring is required to avoid excessive uterine contractions, which can lead to complications such as uterine rupture.

Research and Development[edit | edit source]

Ongoing research is exploring the potential of Oxoprostol in various therapeutic areas, including its role in the management of peptic ulcer disease and its efficacy in different obstetric protocols.

Also see[edit | edit source]


Health science - Medicine - Gastroenterology - edit
Diseases of the esophagus - stomach
Halitosis | Nausea | Vomiting | GERD | Achalasia | Esophageal cancer | Esophageal varices | Peptic ulcer | Abdominal pain | Stomach cancer | Functional dyspepsia | Gastroparesis
Diseases of the liver - pancreas - gallbladder - biliary tree
Hepatitis | Cirrhosis | NASH | PBC | PSC | Budd-Chiari | Hepatocellular carcinoma | Acute pancreatitis | Chronic pancreatitis | Pancreatic cancer | Gallstones | Cholecystitis
Diseases of the small intestine
Peptic ulcer | Intussusception | Malabsorption (e.g. Coeliac, lactose intolerance, fructose malabsorptionWhipple's) | Lymphoma
Diseases of the colon
Diarrhea | Appendicitis | Diverticulitis | Diverticulosis | IBD (Crohn'sUlcerative colitis) | IBS | Constipation | Colorectal cancer | Hirschsprung's | Pseudomembranous colitis



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