Ergometrine
Medicinal Chemistry
Molecular Weight
325.41
Molecular Formula
C19H23N3O2
IUPAC Name
(8beta)-N-[(2S)-1-hydroxypropan-2-yl]-6-methyl-9,10-didehydroergoline-8-carboxamide
Pharmacognosy
Biological Source
Claviceps purpurea (Fungus on rye)
Active Constituents
Ergometrine, Ergotamine
Pharmacology & Synthesis
Mechanism of Action
Agonist at alpha-adrenergic, dopaminergic, and serotonergic receptors; directly stimulates uterine muscle.
Pharmacokinetics (ADME)
A: Rapid oral/IM absorption.
D: Wide distribution.
M: Hepatic.
E: Renal.
Pharmacodynamics
Induces sustained tetanic uterine contractions; vasoconstriction.
Synthesis Pathway
Biosynthesized from L-tryptophan and dimethylallyl pyrophosphate.
Safety, Warnings & Interactions
Adverse Effects
Hypertension, nausea, vomiting, ergotism.
Contraindications
Pregnancy (before delivery of placenta), severe hypertension, eclampsia.
Drug Interactions
CYP3A4 inhibitors (macrolides) increase toxicity.
Pharmaceutics & Compendia
Dosage Forms
Injection, Tablets
Official Compendia
IP, BP, USP