The number of misoprostol tablets to be inserted depends on the specific indication and method of administration, as well as the gestational age. For medical abortion up to 12 weeks (first trimester), the common regimen is:
- 4 tablets of misoprostol (each tablet 200 mcg, total 800 mcg) inserted vaginally or taken sublingually or buccally.
- This dose may be repeated after 3 hours if expulsion does not occur.
- Sometimes 2 tablets are placed in each cheek (total 4) if taken buccally or sublingually.
- The timing between doses and route can vary slightly depending on guidelines, but the total initial dose is generally 800 mcg (4 tablets).
For incomplete abortion up to 13 weeks, a single dose of 400 to 600 mcg (2 to 3 tablets) may be given orally or sublingually. For later gestation (second trimester), the doses are lower per administration (e.g., 2 tablets every 3 hours), but the total number of tablets used may increase with repeated dosing. In summary:
- Usually for a first trimester abortion, insert four 200-mcg misoprostol tablets (total 800 mcg) vaginally or place four tablets sublingually or buccally.
- This may be repeated every 3 hours up to three doses until expulsion.
If the specific use or trimester is known, the dose can be tailored further. Would you like information on dosage for a specific condition or gestational stage?
