Ergometrine (Maleate)
Also known as: Ergobasine Maleate, Ergotocine Maleate, Ergonovine (Maleate), Ergoaterine +3 more
Ergometrine (Maleate) is a derivative of ergot (fungus). It produces contraction of uterine muscle and used after delivery of baby to prevent or reduce maternal haemorrhage.
Primary Characteristics
Ergometrine (Maleate) is also known as Ergobasine Maleate, Ergotocine Maleate, Ergonovine (Maleate), Ergoaterine, Margunovine, Secacornin, .
It is of Natural origin and belongs to Ergot Alkaloid.
It belongs to Alpha adrenergic agonist pharmacological group on the basis of mechanism of action and also classified in Anxiolytics pharmacological group. It is also classified under Analgesics and Anti-inflammatory Agents .
Molecular Weight: 441.5 · pKa: 6.73 ± 0.16 · Solubility in Water: sparingly soluble · Solubility in Alcohol: slightly soluble · Non-proprietary name: Ergometrine (Maleate).

Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Ergometrine (Maleate) has an oral bioavailability is 97% (±2%), pre-systemic (first-pass) metabolism accounts for 72.5% (±2.5%).
Distribution: Ergometrine (Maleate) has a volume of distribution is 73.4 ± 22 litre.
Elimination: it is metabolised via hepatic, plasma half-life is 0.5 hr.
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Indications
Ergometrine (Maleate) is primarily indicated in conditions like Bleeding caused by uterine atony, Migraine, Postabrortal haemorrhage, Postpartum haemorrhage, Prevention and treatment of haemorrhage due to incomplete abortion, Routine management of the 3rd stage of labour, Uterine subinvolution.
Ergometrine (Maleate) is also indicated for secondary conditions like Uterine atony.
Contraindications
Ergometrine (Maleate) is contraindicated in conditions like Hypertension in pregnancy, Renal diseases, Liver diseases, Labor induction, Heart disease, Arteriovenous shunt, Threatened spontaneous abortion.
Dosage
Ergometrine (Maleate)'s dosage details are as follows:
| Dose | Single Dose | Frequency | Route | Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adult Dosage | ||||
| 200 mcg | 200 mcg | Every 4h | IM | This amount is given in emergencies such as uterine bleeding. Frequency may be increased from 2 to 4 hourly as needed, for maximum 5 doses. Or Single dose of 250 to 500 mcg can also be given. |
| 200 mcg | 200 mcg | — | IM | A usual dose of Ergometrine (Maleate) alone for prevention or treatment of postpartum or postabortal haemorrhage. |
| 500 µg | 500 µg | — | IM | Active managment of 3rd stage of labour |
| 300 mcg | 300 mcg | Every 6h | PO | For parental treatment of haemorrhage. The dose can be given for upto 7 days, untill the danger of atony or haemorrhage has passed. Ergonovine should be swallowed or placed under tongue. |
| 500 mcg | 500 mcg | Every 8h | PO | For the treatment of mild secondary postmartum haemorrhage. The dose can be given for 2 to 7 days. |
| Paediatric Dosage (20kg) | ||||
| 0 – 0 | — | — | — | Not Recommended in this Age Group |
| Neonatal Dosage (3kg) | ||||
| 0 – 0 | — | — | Not recommended in this age group | |
Drug Interactions
Always consult your physician for the change of dose regimen or an alternative drug of choice that may strictly be required.
Side Effects
Ergometrine (Maleate) in overdosage may give rise to further complications which include Vascular complications , Ischemia, Gangrene .
Ergometrine (Maleate) produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Coma, Seizures , Nausea, Vomiting, Hypertension, Hypotension, Diarrhea, Severe thirst, Cold extremities, Confusion . Careful monitoring is needed with proper medical management.
The signs and symptoms that are produced after acute overdosage of Ergometrine (Maleate) are Nausea, Vomiting, Seizures, Angina , Confusion , Unconsciousness, Palpitations , Dizziness, Hypertension, Gangrene , Dyspnea, Vasoconstriction of the extremities.
Ergometrine (Maleate) is known to cause more or less tolerable side effects which are usually transient. These include Abdominal pain, Angina, Chest pain, dizziness, Headache, Nausea, Palpitation, Pulmonary edema, Shortening of breath, Tinnitus, VertigoX, Vomiting .
Warnings / Precautions
Available Brands
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Single Ingredient
Storage Conditions
Drug Classification
- 1.22.1.1 — Oxytocics
Manufacturers
Manufacturers of Ergometrine (Maleate) in Pakistan: