Methylergonovine
Pronunciation: meth-il-ER-goh-noh-veen
An ergot alkaloid uterotonic agent used to treat postpartum hemorrhage, contraindicated with hypertension.
Full Definition
Methylergonovine (Methergine) is an ergot alkaloid that causes sustained uterine contractions and vasoconstriction, used to treat postpartum hemorrhage when first-line agents are ineffective. Unlike oxytocin, it causes tetanic uterine contractions and significant vasoconstriction, making it particularly effective for uterine atony. However, its vasoconstrictive properties make it absolutely contraindicated in hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, including preeclampsia, due to risk of stroke, coronary artery spasm, and severe hypertension. The medication can also cause coronary artery spasm in healthy patients and should be used with caution in cardiac patients.
Usage
Usage note: Absolutely contraindicated in hypertensive disorders; verify blood pressure before administration.
In Context
- "Methylergonovine was contraindicated due to the patient's history of preeclampsia." — Contraindication documentation
- "The obstetrician requested methylergonovine 0.2 mg IM after confirming normal blood pressure." — Medication order verification