Hemabate

Hemabate is the brand name for carboprost tromethamine, a synthetic prostaglandin F2 alpha analogue used in obstetrics and gynecology. It is employed primarily to treat postpartum hemorrhage due to uterine atony and, in some settings, to assist in abortion procedures. The drug is administered by intramuscular injection and must be used under medical supervision because of potential systemic effects.

Medical uses include the management of postpartum hemorrhage caused by uterine atony that has not responded to conventional therapies such as uterotonics. In certain countries and clinical practices, carboprost may be used off-label to terminate pregnancy in the second trimester, though guidelines and approvals vary by region. It is not a first-line agent for labor induction and is generally not used in early pregnancy without specific indication.

The mechanism of action involves stimulation of prostaglandin F2 alpha receptors on uterine smooth muscle, causing increased uterine contractions and increased tone, which helps reduce uterine bleeding. This action can also lead to systemic effects such as bronchospasm and vasoconstriction.

Typical dosing for postpartum hemorrhage is 250 micrograms intramuscularly every 15 to 90 minutes until bleeding is controlled, with a maximum cumulative dose commonly limited to about 2 milligrams. Dosing and administration depend on clinical guidelines and patient factors. Storage requires refrigeration, and patients should be monitored for adverse effects during treatment.

Common adverse effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, fever, headache, and bronchospasm. Because of the risk of bronchospasm and other systemic effects, carboprost is contraindicated in individuals with active bronchial asthma or significant cardiovascular, renal, or hepatic disease, and it should be used with caution in susceptible patients.