[Misoprostol for treating postpartum hemorrhages]

Presse Med. 2008 Mar;37(3 Pt 2):477-84. doi: 10.1016/j.lpm.2007.05.023. Epub 2007 Jul 23.
[Article in French]

Abstract

Postpartum hemorrhage is defined by bleeding > 500 mL through the vagina. It is one of the obstetrical complications that obstetricians fear most. It is the leading cause of maternal mortality in the world, especially in developing countries. The reference treatments in France are parenteral oxytocin and sulprostone. Sulprostone involves sometimes fatal side effects, and must be administered only in appropriate health care facilities. It also has the major disadvantage of requiring refrigeration. Misoprostol has uterotonic properties that have led to its occasional off-label use in the treatment of postpartum hemorrhage, by rectal or sublingual administration, as an alternative to sulprostone. A careful review of the literature on this particular use of misoprostol is essential.

Publication types

  • English Abstract
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Female
  • Humans
  • Misoprostol / therapeutic use*
  • Postpartum Hemorrhage / drug therapy*
  • Pregnancy

Substances

  • Misoprostol