Methocin

Methocin Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Methocin is a brand name. Its generic name is Methylergometrine.

Methocin

Methocin (also known as ergonovine or Ergometrine) is a medication used to decrease bleeding after childbirth (postpartum haemorrhage). It belongs to the ergot alkaloid class of medications and works by causing strong contractions of the uterus.

Uses

Methocin is used to prevent and to treat postpartum haemorrhage (abnormal heavy bleeding) by stimulating uterine contractions after a delivery. It is also used to control severe bleeding or to induce labour.

Mechanism of Action

Methocin works by activating serotonin and dopamine receptors that are located on the smooth muscle of the uterus. When these receptors are activated, they cause the uterus to contract strongly which reduces blood flow and helps to stop bleeding.

How Long Does It Take To Work?

Methocin usually begins to take effect within several minutes of being taken, and the effects of the medication typically last for a few hours.

Absorption

Methocin is rapidly absorbed in the stomach and intestine and undergoes some first pass metabolism before reaching the systemic circulation. The mean peak serum concentrations are achieved within about 1 hour of ingestion.

Route of Elimination

Methocin is mainly metabolized in the liver and excreted in the urine as metabolites.

Dosage

The starting dose of Methocin in postpartum haemorrhage is 0.2mg intramuscularly. This dose can be repeated up 0.2mg as often as necessary. The maximum total dose in 24 hours should not exceed 1 or 1.2mg. For induction of labour the recommended dose is 0.2mg intramuscularly or 0.5-1mg orally with caution.

Administration

Methocin is intended for intramuscular injection and should be injected deeply into a large muscle. It can also be administered orally.

Side Effects

Common side effects of Methocin include nausea, vomiting, confusion, headache, sweating, tremor, and difficulty breathing. Serious side effects include high blood pressure and seizures.

Toxicity

Methocin can be toxic if too much is administered or if an existing medical condition is present. Overdose symptoms may include chest pain, dizziness, feeling of warmth, fever, rapid heart rate, nausea, vomiting, confusion, and seizures.

Precaution

Methocin should not be used in people with certain medical conditions including uncontrolled hypertension, coronary artery disease, seizures, or stroke. It should not be used during pregnancy.

Interaction

Methocin can interact with several other medications including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), antifungals, and antibiotics. It can also interact with certain herbs and supplements like kava and St. John’s wort.

Disease Interaction

Methocin should not be used in people with certain medical conditions including uncontrolled hypertension, coronary artery disease, seizures, or stroke.

Drug Interaction

Methocin can interact with several other medications including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), antifungals, and antibiotics. It can also interact with certain herbs and supplements like kava and St. John’s wort.

Food Interactions

Methocin may interact with certain foods, such as foods high in tyramine. Grapefruit and drunken can also interact with Methocin.

Pregnancy Use

Methocin should not be used during pregnancy due to the risk of birth defects and miscarriage.

Lactation Use

Methocin is excreted in breast milk and should not be used by breastfeeding women.

Acute Overdose

Overdose symptoms may include chest pain, dizziness, feeling of warmth, fever, rapid heart rate, nausea, vomiting, confusion, and seizures.

Contraindication

Methocin is contraindicated in people with uncontrolled hypertension, coronary artery disease, seizures, or stroke.

Directions for Use

• Methocin should not be taken by mouth if it is intended for intramuscular injection.
• Methocin should be administered intramuscularly using a sterile needle and syringe.
• The dosage should be carefully adjusted according to the instructions of a medical professional.
• Methocin should not be used during pregnancy.

Storage Condition

Methocin should be stored at room temperature away from light and moisture. It should be kept in a child-proof container and out of the reach of children and pets.

Volume of Distribution

The volume of distribution of Methocin is 1.7 L/kg.

Half Life

The elimination half-life of Methocin is 8.2 hours.

Clearance

The clearance of Methocin is 9.3 mL/min/kg.

Here you find in details version of Methocin

Some Frequently Asked Questions About Methocin

What is Methocin?

Methocin is a drug that is used to stop bleeding after childbirth. It is also referred to as oxytocin methobromide and ergonovine maleate.

How does Methocin work?

Methocin works by stimulating contractions of the uterus, which help to stop bleeding after childbirth.

What are the side effects of Methocin?

Common side effects of Methocin include nausea, vomiting, cramping, dizziness, headache, breast tenderness, and increased blood pressure.

How should Methocin be taken?

Methocin should be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. It is typically taken as an injection just after childbirth or when bleeding is excessive.

How long does Methocin stay in your system?

Methocin typically stays in your system for up to 24 hours.

What should I do if I experience side effects from Methocin?

If you experience any side effects from Methocin, contact your doctor or healthcare provider immediately.

Can I take Methocin if I am pregnant?

No, Methocin should not be taken if you are pregnant, as it can have adverse effects on the fetus.

Can Methocin cause an allergic reaction?

Yes, Methocin may cause an allergic reaction, so be sure to tell your doctor if you have a history of allergies.

Is Methylergometrane available over the counter?

No, Methocin is not available over the counter and must be prescribed by your doctor.

What other drugs should I avoid while taking Methocin?

You should avoid taking any other drugs that may interact with Methocin, such as blood pressure medications, aspirin, ibuprofen, or other uterine stimulants.

Can Methocin be used to induce labor?

Yes, Methocin is sometimes used to induce labor in the late stages of pregnancy.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Methocin?

If you miss a dose of Methocin, contact your doctor or healthcare provider as soon as possible.

How often should I take Methocin?

Methocin should be taken as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take more or less than the recommended amount.

Is Methocin safe to take while breastfeeding?

No, Methocin should not be taken while breastfeeding, as it can pass into the breast milk and harm the infant.

What happens if I overdose on Methocin?

If you overdose on Methocin, contact your doctor or emergency medical personnel immediately. Overdosing on Methocin can lead to serious complications such as heart attack or stroke.

Can Methocin be used to treat postpartum bleeding?

Yes, Methocin can be used to treat postpartum bleeding. It is typically administered as an injection just after childbirth.

Can I drink alcohol while taking Methocin?

No, you should avoid drinking alcohol while taking Methocin, as it can increase the risk of side effects.

What should I do if I experience unusual uterine activity while taking Methocin?

If you experience any unusual uterine activity while taking Methocin, contact your doctor or healthcare provider immediately.

Can I take Methocin if I have high blood pressure?

No, Methocin should not be taken if you have high blood pressure. Talk to your doctor about alternative treatments.

Is Methocin a controlled substance?

No, Methocin is not a controlled substance, but it is only available by prescription.

What other medical conditions should I inform my doctor about before taking Methocin?

You should always inform your doctor of any other medical conditions you may have before taking Methocin, such as heart disease, high blood pressure, asthma, or diabetes.

Can I take Methocin if I have a history of heart problems?

No, you should not take Methocin if you have a history of heart problems. Talk to your doctor about alternative treatments.

Can I take other medications while taking Methocin?

You should always inform your doctor of any other medications you may be taking before taking Methocin, as some medications may interact with it.

Is Methocin safe for long-term use?

No, Methocin should not be taken for longer than your doctor has prescribed. Long-term use of Methocin may cause serious side effects.

What is the recommended dosage of Methocin?

The recommended dosage of Methocin will vary depending on your individual needs and should be determined by your doctor.

Can Methocin be taken with food?

Methocin can be taken with food, but you should always follow your doctor's instructions when taking it.

Is Methocin safe for children?

No, Methocin is not recommended for children. Talk to your doctor about alternative treatments.

What is the difference between Methocin and Oxytocin?

Methocin and Oxytocin are both drugs used to stop bleeding after childbirth. Methocin is more commonly used, as it is more effective and has fewer side effects than Oxytocin.

Can I take Methocin if I have a history of asthma?

No, Methocin should not be taken if you have a history of asthma. Talk to your doctor about alternative treatments.

What are the most common side effects of Methocin?

The most common side effects of Methocin are nausea, vomiting, cramping, dizziness, headache, breast tenderness, and increased blood pressure.

What should I avoid while taking Methocin?

You should avoid taking any other drugs that may interact with Methocin while taking it, such as blood pressure medications, aspirin, ibuprofen, or other uterine stimulants. In addition, you should avoid drinking alcohol while taking Methocin.

Can Methocin be used to treat uterine fibroids?

No, Methocin should not be used to treat uterine fibroids. Talk to your doctor about alternative treatments.

Can Methocin be used to treat postpartum depression?

No, Methocin should not be used to treat postpartum depression. Talk to your doctor about alternative treatments.

Can Methocin cause an increase in blood pressure?

Yes, Methocin can cause an increase in blood pressure. If you experience any increase in blood pressure, contact your doctor immediately.

Is Methocin safe for use during labor?

Yes, Methocin can be used during labor to speed up delivery, but it should only be used under the supervision of your doctor.

What should I do if I experience chest pain while taking Methocin?

If you experience chest pain while taking Methocin, contact your doctor or emergency medical personnel immediately. Chest pain could be a sign of a serious medical condition.

What should I do if I miss multiple doses of Methocin?

If you miss multiple doses of Methocin, contact your doctor or healthcare provider as soon as possible. Your doctor may need to adjust your dosage.

Can Methocin be used to treat postpartum headaches?

No, Methocin should not be used to treat postpartum headaches. Talk to your doctor about alternative treatments.

Is Methocin safe to use in the third trimester of pregnancy?

No, Methocin should not be used in the third trimester of pregnancy, as it can have serious effects on the fetus.

If I experience a severe allergic reaction to Methocin, what should I do?

If you experience a severe allergic reaction to Methocin, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of a severe allergic reaction include difficulty breathing, hives, and swelling of the face, lips, throat, or tongue.