Uterotonic Agent
Medication that stimulates uterine muscle contraction to control bleeding and promote uterine involution after delivery.
Full Definition
A class of pharmacological agents that enhance uterine muscle contractility, primarily used in obstetric practice to prevent and treat postpartum hemorrhage and to facilitate uterine involution following delivery. Common uterotonic agents include oxytocin, methylergonovine, carboprost, and misoprostol, each with distinct mechanisms of action, contraindications, and side effect profiles. These medications are frequently administered during cesarean delivery and may interact with anesthetic drugs or affect maternal hemodynamics. Anesthesiologists must be familiar with their cardiovascular effects, particularly the potential for hypertension with ergot alkaloids and hypotension with rapid oxytocin administration.
Usage
Usage note: Specify the particular agent when documenting (e.g., 'oxytocin' rather than just 'uterotonic').
In Context
- "Multiple uterotonic agents were required to achieve adequate uterine contraction and control bleeding." — Operative report
- "The anesthesiologist monitored blood pressure closely during uterotonic agent administration." — Anesthetic record