342 epinephrine, adrenaline, ergometrine maleate, methylergonovine maleate
epinephrine or adrenaline
(Adrenalin)
Epinephrine and adrenaline are two
names for the same drug. It is used
for allergic reactions or allergic shock,
for example, allergic shock caused by
penicillin.
Important: Take the person’s pulse
before injecting. Do not give more than
3 doses. If the pulse goes up by more
than 30 beats per minute after the first
injections, do not give another dose.
Side effects: Fear, restlessness,
nervousness, tension, headaches,
dizziness, increased heart rate
Signs of taking too much: High blood
pressure, fast heart beat, stroke
Often comes in: ampules for injection
of 1 mg in 1 ml
How to use:
For moderate allergic reaction or
allergic shock, inject ½ mg (½ ml) just
under the skin (not into muscle) of upper
arm. If needed, a second dose can be
given after 20 to 30 minutes, and a third
dose after another 20 to 30 minutes.
ergometrine maleate,
methylergonovine maleate
(Anurhage, Ergonovine, Ergotrate,
Methergine, methylergonovine)
Ergometrine causes contractions of the
womb and its blood vessels and is used
to control heavy bleeding after childbirth.
Ergometrine and methylergonovine
are the same drug. After giving this
medicine, get medical help.
Side effects: Nausea, vomiting,
dizziness, sweating
Often comes in: Tablets of 0.2 mg
How to use:
For heavy bleeding after childbirth,
after the placenta has come out, give
1 tablet (0.2 mg) by mouth every 6 to
12 hours as needed.
WARNING: Do not use
ergometrine to start or speed up
labor or to cause an abortion.
Do not give this drug before the baby
and the placenta have come out.
WARNING: Be careful never to
give more than the recommended
amount. Avoid injecting this into
the buttocks; instead use the back of the
upper arm.
A Health Handbook for Women with Disabilities 2007