Used in medical treatments for inducing labor and managing obstetric and gynecological conditions, such as cervical ripening and uterine contractions for labor induction or evacuation of uterine contents in cases like missed abortion. Its analogs, such as misoprostol, are used for cytoprotective effects in gastrointestinal tissues to prevent ulcers and for potential therapeutic applications in conditions involving tissue ischemia and inflammation. Note: This compound is not typically used for erectile dysfunction (which employs PGE1 analogs) or maintaining ductus arteriosus patency (also PGE1).