Skip to content
ClinCalc Pro
Menu
Calculators Drugs Pathways AI Dx Donate Get the App
Ergot uterotonic

Ergometrine maleate

Brand names: various

Ergometrine maleate is an ergot alkaloid uterotonic used in the management of the third stage of labour and the treatment of postpartum haemorrhage.

Dosing — being independently re-sourced

ClinCalc Pro is rebuilding its dose data from primary open sources — the manufacturer SmPC (eMC), the WHO Model Formulary and other official references — under clinician review. This drug's structured dose is not yet published here. Confirm all doses against the product SmPC and your local formulary before prescribing.

Clinical monograph

How it works

Produces sustained tonic contraction of uterine smooth muscle mainly through alpha-adrenergic and serotonergic receptor agonism, compressing uterine vessels to reduce bleeding.

Prescribing in practice

  • Contraindicated in pre-eclampsia, eclampsia and hypertension and in severe cardiac disease because it can cause marked vasoconstriction and a rise in blood pressure.
  • It is not used for induction or augmentation of labour and must not be given before delivery of the baby.
  • Avoid combining with strong vasoconstrictors and certain interacting drugs that potentiate ergot toxicity.

Monitoring

Monitor blood pressure, uterine tone and blood loss closely after administration.

Counselling the patient

  • Nausea and vomiting may occur after the injection.
  • The medicine is given by clinicians to help the womb contract and reduce bleeding after birth.
  • Tell the team about any history of high blood pressure or heart disease.

Evidence & guidelines

Ergometrine is an established uterotonic in third-stage and postpartum haemorrhage management as reflected in WHO and RCOG guidance.

Reference: RCOG GTG 52 (PPH); MBRRACE; Drug verified in RxNorm (NLM); confirm dosing against the manufacturer SPC (eMC). Verify against your local formulary and current prescribing references before prescribing. Monograph status: clinician-reviewed (2026-07-04).

Related

Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.

Pathways