What is the difference between oxytocin and ergometrine?

Ergometrine‐oxytocin (Syntometrine®) is more effective than oxytocin (Syntocinon®) in reducing blood loss during the delivery of the placenta, but has more side‐effects. However, ergometrine‐oxytocin was associated with more side‐effects of vomiting, nausea and high blood pressure.

Is ergometrine an oxytocin?

Oxytocin/ergometrine (trade name Syntometrine) is an obstetric combination drug. The components are synthetically produced oxytocin, a human hormone produced in the hypothalamus, and ergometrine, an alpha-adrenergic, dopaminergic and serotonin (5-HT2) receptor agonist. Both substances cause the uterus to contract.

Why Oxytocin is preferred over ergometrine?

Conclusions: Intramuscular oxytocin is equally effective but has a better safety profile compared to methyl ergometrine and hence is a more preferable prophylactic uterotonic management of the third stage of labor.

Why is oxytocin given in PPH?

Oxytocin (Pitocin) is the first choice for prevention of postpartum hemorrhage because it is as effective or more effective than ergot alkaloids or prostaglandins and has fewer side effects.

What is the function of ergometrine?

Ergometrine inhibits prolactin secretion and in turn can reduce lactation. Uterine stimulation occurs within 7 minutes of intramuscular injection and almost immediately following intravenous injection. The sustained uterine contractions produced by ergometrine are effective in controlling uterine haemorrhage.

How long does oxytocin injection take to work?

Following intravenous administration of oxytocin, uterine response occurs almost immediately and subsides within 1 hour. Following intramuscular injection of the drug, uterine response occurs within 3 to 5 minutes and persists for 2 to 3 hours.

What is the side effect of Ergometrine injection?

Possible side effects include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, headache, dizziness, tinnitus, chest pain, palpitation, bradycardia, transient hypertension and other cardiac arrhythmias, dyspnea, rashes, and shock.

How long does Ergometrine last for?

Effects last between 45 and 180 minutes. Common side effect include high blood pressure, vomiting, seizures, headache, and low blood pressure. Other serious side effects include ergotism. It was originally made from the rye ergot fungus but can also be made from lysergic acid.