$Unique_ID{BRK03144}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{ergonovine}
$Subject{Ergotrate Maleate Lilly Uterine stimulant ergonovine prevent treat
postpartum delivery postabortion uterine bleeding contractions constrict blood
vessels}
$Volume{}
$Log{}

Copyright (C) 1993 Publications International, Ltd.


ergonovine
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BRAND NAMES (Manufacturers)

     ergonovine maleate (various manufacturers)
     Ergotrate Maleate (Lilly)

TYPE OF DRUG

     Uterine stimulant

INGREDIENT

     ergonovine

DOSAGE FORM

     Tablets (0.2 mg)

STORAGE

     Ergonovine should be stored at room temperature in a tightly closed
container.

USES

     Ergonovine is used to prevent or treat postpartum (immediately after
delivery) or postabortion uterine bleeding.  This medication is usually
administered for only a short period of time (usually 48 hours).  It acts
directly on the uterus to cause contractions and to constrict blood vessels.

TREATMENT

     Ergonovine tablets can be taken either on an empty stomach or with food
or milk (as directed by your doctor).  For more rapid effect, the tablet can
also be placed under the tongue to dissolve.
     If you miss a dose of this medication, do not take the missed dose at
all; just return to your regular dosing schedule.  Do not double the next
dose.

SIDE EFFECTS

     Minor.

     Diarrhea, headache, nausea, or vomiting.  These side effects should
disappear as your body adjusts to the medication.

     Major.

     Tell your doctor about any side effects that are persistent or
particularly bothersome.  IT IS ESPECIALLY IMPORTANT TO TELL YOUR DOCTOR about
chest pain, confusion, convulsions, excitement, hallucinations, hives,
itching, numbness or coldness of the fingers or toes, ringing in the ears,
shortness of breath, skin rash, or tingling sensations--even if these side
effects appear or continue after you stop taking ergonovine.

INTERACTIONS

     Ergonovine should not interact with other medications if it is used
according to directions.

WARNINGS

     * Tell your doctor about unusual or allergic reactions you have had to
medications, especially to ergonovine or to any other ergot alkaloid
(bromocriptine, ergotamine, ergoloid mesylates).
     * Before starting to take this medication, tell your doctor if you now
have or if you have ever had hypocalcemia, heart disease, high blood pressure,
kidney or liver disease, or peripheral vascular disease (poor circulation).
     * Be sure to tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding an infant.
Ergonovine can pass into breast milk and may cause side effects in the nursing
infant.  It can also decrease milk production.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.