The aim was to assess the efficacy of Syntometrine ® (500 micrograms ergometrine with 5 units oxytocin) as an appropriate alternative first-line uterotonic for use in elective caesarean section (CS) during a national shortage of UK-licensed IV oxytocin from April-June 2014. An observational study was performed involving 2 groups of 22 women undergoing elective CS in a UK DGH during this period. Primary endpoints included mean estimated blood loss (EBL), haemoglobin drop post-operatively and transfusion requirement. Secondary endpoints were use of antiemetics and mean post-operative nausea and vomiting (PONV) score. Results for Syntometrine ® groups and syntocinon groups respectively: mean EBL (ml) 527.3 vs. 550.0 (p=0.5820), mean haemoglobin drop (g/dL) 0.977 vs. 0.982 (p=0.98), blood transfusion 1/22 vs. 0/22 (p=1). Intra-operative antiemetics 20/22 vs. 6/22 (p=<0.001), post-operative antiemetics 2/22 vs. 2/22 (p=1), mean PONV score 11.5 vs. 3.5 (p=0.099). As no significant difference in primary endpoints or PONV scores was observed between regimes, we conclude Syntometrine ® was a safe first-line haemostatic agent for elective CS during oxytocin shortage.
Keywords: Drug shortages; patient safety; post-operative nausea and vomiting; postpartum haemorrhage; uterotonic.