Postpartum Medications
| Type | When/How Given | Advantages | Possible Side Effects/Disadvantages |
|
Oxytocin (Pitocin) |
Given after delivery of the placenta usually in IV bag or injection if no IV present. |
Injection or one IV bag usually given after delivery to ensure that the uterus remains contracted and may prevent excessive bleeding. Causes the uterus to contract. |
Cramping. |
| Methergine |
Given after delivery either orally or by injection. Often a series of six pills. |
Given when excessive vaginal bleeding occurs. Stronger than Oxytocin. |
Cramping and nausea. Contraindicated if high blood pressure problematic. |
| Carboprost Tromethamine |
Given for excess bleeding that is not stopped by Pitocin and/or Methergine |
Rapid Acting Stronger than oxytocin |
Nausea and vomiting Use cautiously if have asthma, hypertension diabetes, or renal disease |
| Misoprostol | Given rectally for excess bleeding | Rapid acting and less side effects than Carboprost Tromethamine |
