Methylergonovine (By mouth)

Methylergonovine Maleate (meth-il-er-goe-NOE-veen MAL-ee-ate)

Prevents bleeding from the uterus that can happen after childbirth. This medicine is an ergot alkaloid.

Brand Name(s):

Methergine

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Tablet

• Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed. This medicine is usually given for up to 1 week after childbirth, as directed by your doctor.
• Missed dose: Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.
• Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Some medicines can affect how methylergonovine works. Tell your doctor if you are using any of the following:
  • Chlorzoxazone, cilostazol, clarithromycin, clotrimazole, fluconazole, fluvoxamine, itraconazole, ketoconazole, nefazodone, nevirapine, ranitidine, rifampin, saquinavir, troleandomycin, voriconazole
  • Blood pressure medicine (including beta blockers)
  • Medicine to treat chest pain
  • Medicine to treat HIV infection (including indinavir, nelfinavir, ritonavir)
  • Other ergot medicine (including dihydroergotamine, ergotamine)
• Do not eat grapefruit or drink grapefruit juice while you are using this medicine.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Your unborn baby could be harmed if you use this medicine before you go into labor. This medicine may cause contractions of the uterus and cause you to give birth early.
• Do not breastfeed during treatment with this medicine and for at least 12 hours after the last dose.
• Tell your doctor if you have kidney disease, liver disease, heart or blood vessel disease, diabetes, high cholesterol, overweight, or if you smoke.
• This medicine may increase your chance of heart problems or a heart attack.
• Your doctor will check your progress and the effects of this medicine at regular visits. Keep all appointments.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
• Chest pain or discomfort, fast or uneven heartbeat, sweating, trouble breathing, or pain in the arm, back, or jaw
• Decrease in how much or how often you urinate
• Lightheadedness or fainting
• Seizures
• Severe headache, blurred vision
• Tingling of the fingers, toes, or feet

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088

Last Updated: 8/4/2025