Clinical safety rating: caution
Uterotonic ergot alkaloid used for prevention and treatment of PPH after delivery of the placenta. Effective but has significant contraindications: causes vasoconstriction and is contraindicated in hypertension, preeclampsia, and cardiovascular disease — which are common comorbidities in obstetric PPH scenarios. Oxytocin and misoprostol are preferred first-line agents; ergometrine is reserved for refractory cases or used in combination (Syntometrine = oxytocin + ergometrine). Must not be used before delivery of the baby — severe uterine tetany and fetal hypoxia.
Mechanism information is still being processed. Check the DailyMed link in the sidebar for the official prescribing information.
Dosing varies by indication and patient profile. Always follow your institution's current prescribing guidelines.
| Renal impairment | Consult protocols for adjustment. |
| Liver impairment | Consult protocols for adjustment. |
| 1st trimester | Contraindicated antepartum. |
| 2nd trimester | Contraindicated antepartum. |
| 3rd trimester | For use ONLY after delivery of the placenta. Contraindicated in hypertension and preeclampsia. |
Clinical note
Uterotonic ergot alkaloid used for prevention and treatment of PPH after delivery of the placenta. Effective but has significant contraindications: causes vasoconstriction and is contraindicated in hypertension, preeclampsia, and cardiovascular disease — which are common comorbidities in obstetric PPH scenarios. Oxytocin and misoprostol are preferred first-line agents; ergometrine is reserved for refractory cases or used in combination (Syntometrine = oxytocin + ergometrine). Must not be used before delivery of the baby — severe uterine tetany and fetal hypoxia.
| Breastfeeding | Avoid. Ergot alkaloids suppress lactation via dopaminergic mechanisms and can cause infant ergotism. Avoid during breastfeeding. |
Avoid in patients with known hypersensitivity to this drug or any of its components.
Loading safety data…
