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Ergotrate: Full Drug Profile

Medically reviewed by Min Clinic Staff | Updated: January 2026

Ergotrate - General Information

An ergot alkaloid (ergot alkaloids) with uterine and vascular smooth muscle contractile properties. [PubChem]

 

Pharmacology of Ergotrate

Ergotrate belongs to the group of medicines known as ergot alkaloids. These medicines are usually given to stop excessive bleeding that sometimes occurs after abortion or a baby is delivered. They work by causing the muscle of the uterus to contract.

 

Additional information about Ergotrate

Ergotrate Indication

Used to treat postpartum haemorrhage and postabortion haemorrhage.

Mechanism Of Action
Ergotrate directly stimulates the uterine muscle to increase force and frequency of contractions. With usual doses, these contractions precede periods of relaxation; with larger doses, basal uterine tone is elevated and these relaxation periods will be decreased. Contraction of the uterine wall around bleeding vessels at the placental site produces hemostasis. Ergotrate also induces cervical contractions. The sensitivity of the uterus to the oxytocic effect is much greater toward the end of pregnancy. The oxytocic actions of ergonovine are greater than its vascular effects. Ergotrate, like other ergot alkaloids, produces arterial vasoconstriction by stimulation of alpha-adrenergic and serotonin receptors and inhibition of endothelial-derived relaxation factor release. It is a less potent vasoconstrictor than ergotamine. As a diagnostic aid (coronary vasospasm), ergonovine causes vasoconstriction of coronary arteries.
Generic Name
Ergonovine
Synonyms
Ergotrate maleate; Ergometrine; Ergobasine
Drug Category
Oxytocics
Drug Type
Small Molecule; Approved
Other Brand Names containing Ergonovine
Ergotrate;
Absorption
Absorption is rapid and complete after oral or intramuscular administration.
Toxicity (Overdose)
The principal symptoms of overdose are convulsions and gangrene. Other symptoms include bradycardia, confusion, diarrhoea, dizziness, dyspnoea, drowsiness, fast and/or weak pulse, miosis, hypercoagulability, loss of consciousness, nausea and vomiting, numbness and coldness of the extremities, pain in the chest, peripheral vasoconstriction, respiratory depression, rise or fall in blood pressure, severe cramping of the uterus, tachycardia, tingling, and unusual thirst.
Biotransformation
Hepatic.
Dosage Forms of Ergotrate
Solution Intramuscular
Chemical Formula
C19H23N3O2
Organisms Affected
Humans and other mammals