Misoprostol use in developing countries: results from a multicountry study.
OBJECTIVE
To identify information and service delivery needs for obstetric/gynecologic uses of misoprostol in developing countries.


METHODS
The study included a survey of reproductive health providers in 23 countries and a qualitative study of misoprostol use in four developing countries. Researchers used purposive sampling methods for the survey and qualitative study and conducted a descriptive statistical analysis of survey data and computer-assisted text-based content analysis of qualitative data.


RESULTS
In some developing countries, women frequently access misoprostol through pharmacies and self-medicate to induce early abortion. Some clinicians expressed concern about this use of misoprostol, but many stated that its availability had reduced serious complications resulting from unsafe abortions.


CONCLUSIONS
Although misoprostol is routinely used for a range of off-label obstetric/gynecologic indications, evidence-based, up-to-date information about safety, effectiveness, and appropriate regimens is not widely available. This information is requested by providers, including pharmacists. Women need information and guidance about its use.
Sherris
J
J
PATH, Seattle, WA, USA.
Bingham
A
A
Burns
M A
MA
Girvin
S
S
Westley
E
E
Gomez
P I
PI
D000020:Abortifacient Agents, Nonsteroidal / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D003376:Counseling; D003906:Developing Countries; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D016595:Misoprostol / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D010818:Practice Patterns, Physicians'
D000020:Abortifacient Agents, Nonsteroidal; D016595:Misoprostol