Drugs used in obstetrics and gynaecology
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Syntocinon
Syntocinon is a synthetic version of oxytocin that is used in the active management of third stage of labour. It stimulates the contraction of the uterus reducing the risk of postpartum haemorrhage. It is also used to induce labour.
Ergometrine
Ergometrine is an ergot alkaloid which is used as an alternative to oxytocin in the active management of third stage of labour. By constricting vascular smooth muscle of the uterus it can decrease blood loss.
Mechanism of action
- stimulates alpha adrenergic, dopaminergic and serotonergic receptors
Adverse effects
- coronary artery spasm
Mifepristone
Mifepristone is used in combination with misoprostol to terminate pregnancies. Misoprostol is a prostaglandin analog that causes uterine contractions.
Mechanism of action
- competitive progesterone receptor antagonist
Adverse effects
- menorrhagia