Methylergometrine
Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA), UK(BNF)
WHO Essential Medicine
YES
Known Teratogen
NO
Pharmaceutical Class
Ergot Derivative
Controlled Drug Substance
NO

Methylergometrine
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Click HereSummary
Methylergometrine is used to prevent or control bleeding from the uterus after childbirth or an abortion. It is also used to manage uterine atony and subinvolution of the uterus following delivery of the placenta.
Methylergometrine works by acting directly on the smooth muscle of the uterus, increasing the tone, rate and amplitude of contractions. This helps control postpartum hemorrhage and reduces blood loss.
Methylergometrine is typically taken orally as a tablet, three or four times a day. The usual dose for adults is one tablet (0.2 mg) each time. Always follow your doctor's instructions regarding dosage.
Common side effects of Methylergometrine include upset stomach, vomiting, diarrhea, headache and a bad taste in the mouth. Serious side effects can include seizures, chest pain, fast heartbeat, difficulty breathing, dizziness, ringing in the ears, leg cramps and skin rash.
Methylergometrine should not be used during pregnancy or by individuals with hypertension, toxemia, or hypersensitivity to the drug. It should not be administered intravenously due to the risk of sudden hypertensive and cerebrovascular accidents. Caution is advised in patients with impaired hepatic or renal function.
Indications and Purpose
What is Methylergometrine used for?
Methylergometrine is indicated for the prevention and control of postpartum hemorrhage, management of uterine atony, hemorrhage, and subinvolution of the uterus following delivery of the placenta. It is also used to control uterine hemorrhage in the second stage of labor following delivery of the anterior shoulder.
How does Methylergometrine work?
Methylergometrine acts directly on the smooth muscle of the uterus, increasing the tone, rate, and amplitude of rhythmic contractions. This action induces a rapid and sustained uterotonic effect, which helps control postpartum hemorrhage and assists in uterine involution.
Is Methylergometrine effective?
Methylergometrine is effective in preventing and controlling postpartum hemorrhage by acting directly on the smooth muscle of the uterus, increasing the tone, rate, and amplitude of rhythmic contractions. This action helps reduce blood loss after childbirth.
How does one know if Methylergometrine is working?
The benefit of Methylergometrine is evaluated by its effectiveness in preventing or controlling postpartum hemorrhage. This is assessed by monitoring the reduction in blood loss and the improvement in uterine tone and contractions after administration.
Directions for Use
What is the usual dose of Methylergometrine?
The usual adult dose for Methylergometrine is 0.2 mg taken orally three or four times a day. The maximum duration of use is typically one week. Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients have not been established, so there is no recommended dose for children.
How do I take Methylergometrine?
Methylergometrine should be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor, typically three or four times a day. There are no specific instructions regarding taking it with or without food, but it is important to follow your doctor's advice. There are no known food restrictions while taking this medication.
For how long do I take Methylergometrine?
Methylergometrine is typically used for a maximum of one week. It is important to follow your doctor's instructions regarding the duration of use.
How long does it take for Methylergometrine to start working?
Methylergometrine starts working within 5-10 minutes after oral administration. It acts quickly to increase uterine contractions and reduce blood loss.
How should I store Methylergometrine?
Store Methylergometrine in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Keep it at room temperature, away from light, excess heat, and moisture. Do not store it in the bathroom. Dispose of unneeded medication through a take-back program.
Warnings and Precautions
Who should avoid taking Methylergometrine?
Methylergometrine should not be used in individuals with hypertension, toxemia, pregnancy, or hypersensitivity to the drug. It should not be administered intravenously routinely due to the risk of sudden hypertensive and cerebrovascular accidents. Caution is advised for those with impaired hepatic or renal function.
Can I take Methylergometrine with other prescription drugs?
Methylergometrine should not be coadministered with potent CYP 3A4 inhibitors, such as certain antibiotics, HIV protease inhibitors, or antifungals, due to the risk of vasospasm and ischemia. Caution is also advised when used with beta-blockers, anesthetics, and other vasoconstrictors.
Can I take Methylergometrine with vitamins or supplements?
From all available and reliable information, there is no confirmed data on this. Please consult a doctor for personalized advice.
Can Methylergometrine be taken safely while pregnant?
Methylergometrine is contraindicated during pregnancy due to its uterotonic effects, which can harm the fetus. It should only be used after delivery to assist with uterine involution and decrease hemorrhage.
Can Methylergometrine be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Mothers should not breast-feed during treatment with Methylergometrine and should wait at least 12 hours after the last dose before resuming breastfeeding. Milk secreted during this period should be discarded to avoid adverse effects on the infant.
Is Methylergometrine safe for the elderly?
There is no specific information on the use of Methylergometrine in the elderly. However, it is generally recommended to start at the low end of the dosing range due to the greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal, or cardiac function, and of concomitant disease or other drug therapy in older adults.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Methylergometrine?
From all available and reliable information, there is no confirmed data on this. Please consult a doctor for personalized advice.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Methylergometrine?
From all available and reliable information, there is no confirmed data on this. Please consult a doctor for personalized advice.