- 500μg/ml colourless solution
- 500μg tablets
- In combination with oxytocin as syntometrine
Ergometrine
Ergometrine
- An ergot alkaloid derivative with a chemical structure similar to LSD
- To cause uterine contraction and reduce bleeding following delivery and in the management of PPH
- Given via:
- 500mcg IM bolus
- 250 - 500mcg slow IV bolus
- The mechanism of action isn't fully elucidated, although:
- Stimulates uterine and vascular smooth muscle contraction, possibly through binding of 5HT3, dopamine or ɑ-adrenergic receptors
- Stimulates D2 dopamine receptors at the CTZ to cause emesis
- Increased SVR, PVR and consequent hypertension - is contraindicated in pre-eclampsia, hypertension, cardiac disease and in porphyria
- Headache, dizziness, tinnitus
- Severe nausea and vomiting - especially if given IV
- Effects onset within 1 minute (IV) or 5 minutes (IM)
- Effects last up to 6hrs
- Metabolised in the liver
- Excreted in bile