Indications
Methyl Ergometrine Maleate (also called Methylergometrine) is used after childbirth to prevent and treat heavy bleeding from the womb (postpartum haemorrhage). It is also used to control bleeding after a miscarriage or abortion and to help the womb return to its normal size.
How It Works
It belongs to the ergot group of medicines. It makes the muscle of the womb contract firmly and steadily, which squeezes the blood vessels in the womb and reduces bleeding.
Dosage and Administration
Tablets: as prescribed, usually for a few days only after delivery. Do not take more often or for longer than prescribed. The injection is given by a doctor or nurse, usually in hospital, after the baby and placenta have been delivered.
Interactions
- Clarithromycin, Erythromycin, Itraconazole, Ketoconazole and HIV protease inhibitors can raise its levels and cause dangerous narrowing of blood vessels; they should not be used together.
- Other ergot medicines, triptans such as Sumatriptan, and decongestants or other medicines that narrow blood vessels add to this risk.
- Glyceryl trinitrate and similar medicines may reduce its effect.
Tell your doctor about all medicines you take.
Contraindications
- Pregnancy before the baby is born, and for starting labour.
- High blood pressure, pre-eclampsia or eclampsia.
- Coronary heart disease or poor circulation in the arms or legs.
- Severe liver or kidney disease, and serious infection in the blood (sepsis).
- Allergy to ergot medicines or any ingredient of the product.
Side Effects
Common: nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness, stomach cramps and a rise in blood pressure.
Get urgent medical help if you have chest pain or tightness, a sudden severe headache, blurred vision or fits, cold, pale, numb or painful fingers or toes, shortness of breath, a fast or irregular heartbeat, or swelling of the face, lips or throat.
Pregnancy and Lactation
It must not be used during pregnancy or before the baby is delivered, as it can harm the baby. It is used only after delivery. Small amounts pass into breast milk and it may reduce milk supply, so it is usually given for the shortest time; tell the doctor if the baby has vomiting, diarrhoea or seems unwell.
Precautions and Warnings
Blood pressure should be checked during treatment. Use with care in people with migraine, mild kidney or liver problems, or heart disease, and in smokers. Do not take extra doses even if bleeding continues; contact your doctor or go to hospital instead.
Overdose
Overdose can cause nausea, vomiting, very high or low blood pressure, cold numb tingling hands and feet, chest pain, confusion and fits. It is especially dangerous for children. Get urgent medical help.
Therapeutic Class
Uterotonic (oxytocic), ergot alkaloid.
Storage
Tablets: store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light. Injection: store in a refrigerator at 2 to 8°C, protected from light. Keep out of the reach of children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.