G-Ergometrine

Active management of the third stage of labour, Treatment and prophylaxis of postpartum haemorrhage, Excessive uterine bleeding, Postpartum and post-abortion bleeding

Ergometrine causes contraction of the uterine muscle. At low doses, there is an increase in frequency and amplitude of contractions while at higher doses, the basal tone of the uterus is increased. Ergometrine also causes vasoconstriction of peripheral and cerebral vessels.

Halothane causes relaxation of uterine muscle and may interfere with ergometrine action. Enhanced uterotonic effect with prostaglandins and oxytocin. Concurrent admin with CYP3A4 inhibitors may lead to vasospasm, cerebral ischaemia and/or ischaemia of extremities.

Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhoea; headache, dizziness; tinnitus; chest pain, palpitation, bradycardia, transient hypertension and other cardiac arrhythmias; dyspnoea, sometimes rashes, shock

Pregnancy Category X. Studies in animals or human beings have demonstrated foetal abnormalities or there is evidence of foetal risk based on human experience or both, and the risk of the use of the drug in pregnant women clearly outweighs any possible benefit. The drug is contraindicated in women who are or may become pregnant.

Breech and abnormal foetal presentation; hypertension; chronic anaemia; hepatic, renal, respiratory or cardiac impairment; toxemia; lactation; hypocalcaemia. Monitor BP, pulse and uterine response.

Drugs acting on the Uterus

Symptoms include peripheral vasoconstriction, encephalopathy, convulsions, respiratory failure, acute renal failure and temporary lactose intolerance. Treatment is supportive.

Intramuscular:  Active management of the third stage of labour: Refrigerate at 2-8°C.
Intravenous:  Refrigerate at 2-8°C.
Oral:  Store below 25°C.