Two drugs, almost identical molecular structure, very different actions.
Before there was viagra, there was alprostadil. This is a prostaglandin (PGE 1). It is given by penile injection to cause vasodilation and erection. Ouch...
Another drug, dinoprostone, another prostaglandin (PGE 2), is administered vaginally. Given in early pregnancy, it is abortifacient, meaning it causes an abortion. Given in late pregnancy, it causes uterine muscle contraction and induction of labor.
Two drugs, almost identical chemical structure, very different results. Interesting.
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