What it means
A synthetic prostaglandin used for heavy bleeding after birth (postpartumpohst-PAR-tumThe time after giving birth, usually the first six weeks, while the body returns to its non-pregnant state.post- afterpart/o birth, laborFull entry hemorrhage) caused by a uterus that will not stay firm, when oxytocin and other drugs have not worked. It is given deep IM and can be repeated. Common side effects are diarrhea, vomiting, fever and chills. It can tighten the airways.
For the nurse
Ask about asthma before giving it, because it can cause bronchospasm. Keep it refrigerated. Check uterine tone, bleeding, vital signs and breathing afterward.
At a glance
| Drug class | prostaglandin (uterotonic) |
|---|---|
| Brand names | Hemabate |
| Also written | Hemabate |
Related terms
hemorrhage
A large loss of blood from a blood vessel, inside the body or out of it.
postpartum
The time after giving birth, usually the first six weeks, while the body returns to its non-pregnant state.
uterine contraction
A tightening and then relaxing of the muscle of the uterus (womb), as happens during labor.
methylergonovine
An ergot drug that makes the uterus contract firmly, given after birth.