Ergometrinine

Ergometrine also known as Ergonovine, is a medication used to cause contractions of the uterus to treat heavy vaginal bleeding after childbirth. It can be used either by mouth, by injection into a muscle, or injection into a vein. It begins working within 15 minutes and continues for up to 2 hours. It may also be used to cause an abortion or to help with a miscarriage. It is not recommended for use during pregnancy, labor, or breastfeeding.

Medical Uses

Ergometrine is used for the prevention and treatment of postpartum and post-abortion hemorrhage. It is also used for the expulsion of retained products in the uterus following childbirth or miscarriage.

Side Effects

Common side effects include high blood pressure, vomiting, seizures, headache, and low blood pressure. Serious side effects include an increased risk of its use in those with heart disease and those at risk of blood clots. It is unclear if use during pregnancy is safe for the baby. Ergometrine is in the ergoline and lysergamide family of medications. It works by causing smooth muscle tissue to contract.

History

Ergometrine was discovered in 1935 by the American chemists Harold Clayton Urey, Marjorie Jean Votaw, and George Herbert Hitchings, who were then working at the Wellcome Trust research laboratories.

References

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