Novel applications of misoprostol.

Misoprostol, a prostaglandin E1 analogue, is currently licensed primarily to prevent non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug-associated gastric and duodenal ulcers. Further work shows the drug prevents triggering of a variety of inflammatory processes and the release of tissue damaging cytokines and other mediators involved in conditions as diverse as asthma and osteoarthritis. Thus, misoprostol may help restore or maintain normal homeostasis and limit inhibitory effects on essential repair processes. Therapeutic implications include limitation of renal, hepatic, gastrointestinal and radiation-induced tissue injury and prevention of inflammatory and allergic disorders, including the late phase inflammatory response in asthma, either alone or in synergy with other agents.