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What are the Medical Uses of Ergometrine?

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ergometrine is used most commonly in the management of bleeding during labor and delivery and in the immediate wake of childbirth. It can also be administered as part of a test used to diagnose angina. This medication is typically placed by pharmaceutical regulators in the highest class of controlled substances. This limits access to the drug and sets clear standards for how the drug can be handled and used, out of concerns about the potential dangers of the medication.

This drug is an alkaloid related to ergot and alkaloids produced by members of the morning glory family. Its actions in the body are complex, but essentially it acts as a stimulant on the smooth muscles of the body, like the muscles found in the uterus and the walls of the blood vessels. Actions of ergometrine in the body can be complicated by interactions with other medications, and this must be considered when administering the medication, to avoid situations where people are put in danger of adverse drug reactions.

Ergometrine may be used to diagnose angina.
Ergometrine may be used to diagnose angina.

In women at risk of uterine bleeding, ergometrine may be administered during and after labor. The drug stimulates contractions of the uterine muscle, facilitating delivery and helping to clamp the uterus down after birth to stop bleeding. In addition, it reduces bloodflow to the uterus by constricting the blood vessels. This will reduce the risks of experiencing uncontrolled bleeding after delivery.

Chest pain and tightness are common symptoms of angina.
Chest pain and tightness are common symptoms of angina.

In medical testing for angina, ergometrine is administered to force the coronary artery to spasm. The reaction of the coronary artery is used in the diagnostic workup of the patient to determine if angina is present and to learn more about the nature of the angina. The type of angina involved is an important determining factor in how to handle the condition, as some forms are more risky than others.

Ergometrine is a controlled substance.
Ergometrine is a controlled substance.

Some common ergometrine side effects include dizziness, tingling in the extremities, and headache. An overdose of this drug can be dangerous and patients should report any abnormal sensations they experience while on the medication. If an adverse reaction develops, the drug can be stopped and the patient can be provided with supportive care while the body breaks down the medication.

Ergometrine stimulates contractions of the uterine muscle, helping to clamp the uterus down after birth to stop bleeding.
Ergometrine stimulates contractions of the uterine muscle, helping to clamp the uterus down after birth to stop bleeding.

Recreational use of ergometrine has been documented and the drug is usually kept carefully controlled to prevent people from accessing it and using it for recreational purposes. The primary concern with recreational users is the risk of a drug overdose in an uncontrolled environment.

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a TheHealthBoard researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Learn more...
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a TheHealthBoard researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Learn more...

Discussion Comments

starrynight

When I was reading this article, I couldn't understand why anyone would use this drug recreationally. It doesn't sound like the effects would be that enjoyable. However, I did a little bit of research and apparently ergometrine is chemically similar to LSD! So that explains it, I think.

However, the side effects of an overdose sound awful. Apparently it can cause gangrene, which necessitates amputation. It can also cause abortion in pregnant women as well as severe intestinal issues. I don't think I would take the chance and use this drug for recreation!

Monika

When I was born my mother almost bled to death. She hemorrhaged pretty badly after giving birth to me. She told me that if she wasn't in a hospital she would have definitely died!

I remember her mentioning that when my little sister was born they gave her some type of medication to prevent uterine bleeding. I think it might have been ergometrine. In my moms case, she didn't experience and adverse effects, and she didn't almost bleed to death after giving birth to my sister. So I would say in her case, ergometrine was a success.

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    • Ergometrine may be used to diagnose angina.
      By: nebari
      Ergometrine may be used to diagnose angina.
    • Chest pain and tightness are common symptoms of angina.
      By: kmiragaya
      Chest pain and tightness are common symptoms of angina.
    • Ergometrine is a controlled substance.
      By: Dana S. Rothstein
      Ergometrine is a controlled substance.
    • Ergometrine stimulates contractions of the uterine muscle, helping to clamp the uterus down after birth to stop bleeding.
      By: reineg
      Ergometrine stimulates contractions of the uterine muscle, helping to clamp the uterus down after birth to stop bleeding.
    • The side effects of ergometrine can include dizziness and headaches.
      By: elizalebedewa
      The side effects of ergometrine can include dizziness and headaches.
    • Chronic angina may eventually cause shortness of breath.
      By: DURIS Guillaume
      Chronic angina may eventually cause shortness of breath.
    • Ergometrine is used to manage bleeding while a woman is in labor.
      By: olly
      Ergometrine is used to manage bleeding while a woman is in labor.