Postpartum Hemorrhage Medications

Maternity & Reproductive

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Examples

oxytocinmethylergonovinecarboprostmisoprostoltranexamic acid

Prefix / Suffix: No consistent suffix

Physiology

After birth, the uterus must contract firmly to compress open placental blood vessels. If the uterus is boggy or clotting is impaired, bleeding can become life-threatening quickly.

Mechanism of Action

Uterotonics increase uterine tone to reduce bleeding. Tranexamic acid inhibits fibrinolysis, helping stabilize formed clots.

Indications

Prevention of postpartum hemorrhage
Treatment of uterine atony
Adjunct treatment for severe postpartum bleeding
Bleeding with suspected excessive clot breakdown

Side Effects / Adverse Effects

Hypertension with methylergonovine
Bronchospasm, fever, diarrhea with carboprost
Fever, chills, GI upset with misoprostol
Thromboembolism risk with tranexamic acid
Hypotension if oxytocin is pushed rapidly

Contraindications

Methylergonovine: hypertension or preeclampsia
Carboprost: asthma
Tranexamic acid: active intravascular clotting
Agent-specific allergy

Nursing Considerations

Assess fundus, lochia amount, clots, vital signs, and level of consciousness frequently
Massage boggy uterus and administer medications per hemorrhage protocol
Quantify blood loss instead of estimating visually
Maintain IV access and prepare fluids, blood products, and labs as ordered
Escalate early because postpartum hemorrhage can progress rapidly

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Disclaimer: PharmPal Nurse is for education only and is not medical advice. Do not use it to diagnose, treat, prescribe, or make patient-care decisions; always verify with current drug references, your instructor, facility policy, and a licensed provider. In emergencies, call local emergency services.