Therapeutic Effects: Arteriolar vasoconstriction

Anesthesia Implications

Only given IM.

Used to treat uterine atony after delivery of the baby and placenta. The primary use is to slow postpartum bleeding/hemorrhage. Methergine is typically used if Oxytocin was unsuccessful at slowing blood loss.

May cause hypertension – this is why it is contraindicated in hypertensive/preeclamptic patients. Side effects also include severe nausea and vomiting.

Contraindications

Preeclampsia, Hypertension, seizures, CVA, retinal detachment, and cardiac arrest

IV push dose

NOT given IV – this would potentially cause severe hypertension, vasoconstriction, and cerebral hemorrhage

IM dose: 0.2 mg; Due to its long duration of action, a repeat dose may be given after 1 hour.

Classification: Ergot Alkaloid, Uterotonic

Duration: Half-life: 2 hours