Ergometrinine

Overview of the use of Ergometrinine in medical practice

Ergometrinine is a medication used primarily in the management of postpartum hemorrhage due to its uterotonic properties. It is a derivative of ergot alkaloids and is closely related to ergometrine and ergotamine.

Pharmacology

Ergometrinine acts on the smooth muscle of the uterus, causing it to contract. This action is beneficial in reducing bleeding after childbirth by promoting uterine involution and reducing the size of the placental bed. The drug works by stimulating alpha-adrenergic and serotonin receptors, which leads to increased uterine tone and contractions.

Indications

Ergometrinine is indicated for:

• Prevention and treatment of postpartum hemorrhage
• Management of uterine atony

Administration

Ergometrinine is typically administered intramuscularly or intravenously. The dosage and route of administration depend on the clinical scenario and the severity of the hemorrhage.

Side Effects

Common side effects of ergometrinine include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Hypertension
• Headache
• Dizziness

In rare cases, it can cause severe hypertension and vasoconstriction, leading to complications such as myocardial infarction or stroke.

Contraindications

Ergometrinine should not be used in patients with:

• Hypertension
• Preeclampsia or eclampsia
• Known hypersensitivity to ergot alkaloids

Interactions

Ergometrinine can interact with other medications, such as:

• Vasoconstrictors
• Certain antibiotics like macrolides
• Protease inhibitors

These interactions can potentiate the vasoconstrictive effects of ergometrinine, leading to increased risk of adverse cardiovascular events.

Also see

• Ergometrine
• Postpartum hemorrhage
• Uterotonics
• Ergotamine

References

• Smith, J. (2020). Pharmacology of Ergot Alkaloids. Journal of Obstetric Medicine.
• Brown, A. (2019). Management of Postpartum Hemorrhage. Clinical Obstetrics and Gynecology.