Cytotec (misoprostol) has which onset and duration when given rectally?

Cytotec (misoprostol) has which onset and duration when given rectally?

• A. Onset 10-20 minutes PR; duration about 3 hours
• B. Onset 1-2 minutes IV; duration about 1 hour
• C. Onset 30-60 minutes PO; duration about 4 hours
• D. Onset 5-10 minutes SC; duration about 2 hours

Answer: (A)

Rectal administration of misoprostol produces slower, more controlled absorption than IV, with an onset typically around 10–20 minutes and a duration of about 3 hours. This pharmacokinetic profile fits the rectal route best among the options, since IV tends to act within minutes but only lasts about an hour, oral tends to start in 30–60 minutes with around 4 hours of effect, and subcutaneous has a faster onset (5–10 minutes) but about 2 hours of duration.

Rectal administration of misoprostol produces slower, more controlled absorption than IV, with an onset typically around 10–20 minutes and a duration of about 3 hours. This pharmacokinetic profile fits the rectal route best among the options, since IV tends to act within minutes but only lasts about an hour, oral tends to start in 30–60 minutes with around 4 hours of effect, and subcutaneous has a faster onset (5–10 minutes) but about 2 hours of duration.