Ergometrine

Ergometrine is a medication used to cause contractions of the uterus to treat heavy vaginal bleeding after childbirth. It can be used either by injection into a muscle or into a vein.

Medical Uses

Ergometrine is used to prevent and treat postpartum hemorrhage (excessive bleeding following childbirth). It works by inducing sustained contractions in the uterus, which helps to prevent heavy bleeding. It is often used in combination with oxytocin, another drug that also stimulates uterine contractions.

Side Effects

Common side effects of ergometrine include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and increased blood pressure. More serious side effects may include severe high blood pressure and severe allergic reactions.

Pharmacology

Ergometrine acts on the smooth muscle of the uterus and increases the tone, rate, and amplitude of rhythmic contractions. Thus, it induces a rapid and sustained tetanic uterotonic effect which shortens the third stage of labor and reduces blood loss.

History

Ergometrine was first isolated in 1935 by the American chemist Harold Clayton Urey, and its medical use was first described in the same year by the British obstetrician and gynecologist Robert Moir.

See Also

• Oxytocin
• Postpartum hemorrhage
• Uterine contraction

References

Ergometrine Resources
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