ENDOPROST 12MCG INJECTION
CARBOPROST
What it does
Carboprost is a medication used to treat certain conditions related to childbirth and reproductive health.
Commonly used for: to help control bleeding after childbirth (postpartum hemorrhage), to induce abortion (termination of pregnancy), to help with certain types of miscarriage
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Sourcing - Kenya onlyRegistration & product details
Source: Food and Drugs Authority · fetched 2026-04-18 08:32:59 · updated 2026-09-25 04:00:15
About this medicine
Carboprost is a medication used to treat certain conditions related to childbirth and reproductive health.
What it treats
- to help control bleeding after childbirth (postpartum hemorrhage)
- to induce abortion (termination of pregnancy)
- to help with certain types of miscarriage
How it works
Carboprost works by causing the uterus to contract, which helps to reduce bleeding and can also help in expelling the contents of the uterus.
Who it's for
This medication is used for women who have just given birth or are experiencing a miscarriage.
Cautions
- • Not suitable for women with certain heart or lung conditions.
- • Should be used cautiously in patients with liver or kidney problems.
- • May cause side effects like diarrhea or nausea.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: Carboprost
BNF-referencedCarboprost is a synthetic analogue of prostaglandin F2α, primarily used in obstetrics to manage uterine atony, particularly following caesarean sections. It promotes uterine contractions and reduces postpartum hemorrhage. The drug is administered via slow intravenous injection and works by stimulating the myometrial cells of the uterus, facilitating contraction and reducing the risk of excessive blood loss after childbirth.
Indications
- Prevention of uterine atony after caesarean section
- Treatment of postpartum hemorrhage due to uterine atony
Dosage
Adults: 100 micrograms as a single dose, administered by slow intravenous injection over 1 minute, as soon as possible after delivery, preferably before removal of the placenta.
Mechanism of action
Carboprost acts as a potent agonist at the prostaglandin F2α receptor (FP receptor), leading to increased intracellular calcium levels, which in turn stimulates uterine muscle contraction. This mechanism is crucial in controlling uterine atony, a common condition that can lead to significant postpartum hemorrhage.
Pharmacodynamics
As a prostaglandin analogue, Carboprost enhances uterine tone and motility. Its effects are dose-dependent, with higher doses resulting in more pronounced uterine contractions. The medication also has potential effects on other smooth muscle tissues, which may contribute to its side effect profile, including gastrointestinal symptoms.
Pharmacokinetics
Carboprost is administered intravenously, allowing for rapid onset of action. The pharmacokinetics are characterized by a quick distribution phase followed by elimination. It has a half-life of approximately 20 minutes when administered intravenously. Metabolism primarily occurs in the liver, and the drug is excreted in urine. Patients with hepatic or renal impairment may require careful monitoring or dose adjustments.
Contra-indications
- Eclampsia
- Epilepsy
- Pre-eclampsia
- Active hepatic disease
- Severe asthma
- Severe cardiovascular disease
Adverse effects
- Anxiety
- Chest pain
- Chills
- Dizziness
- Dyspnoea
- Feeling hot
- Flushing
- Headache
- Hypotension
- Hyperglycaemia
- Nausea
- Tachycardia
- Vomiting
Precautions
- Caution in patients with renal impairment
- Caution in patients with hepatic impairment
- Caution in patients with a history of asthma or cardiovascular disease
- Caution in patients with migraine
- Caution in patients with hyponatraemia
Pregnancy
Carboprost is used in obstetrics, specifically to prevent uterine atony after delivery.
Breast-feeding
Consult with a healthcare provider; limited data available on the excretion of Carboprost in breast milk.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place, protected from light. Follow manufacturer's instructions for specific storage conditions.
Formulations
- Solution for injection: Carboprost (as Carboprost trometamol) 250 micrograms per 1 ml
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.
Molecular reference: Carboprost
PubChem CID 5281075Molecular formula: C21H36O5
Source: PubChem (NCBI) · pathways from PathBank, Reactome, WikiPathways & PharmGKB.
This drug in other countries
The same active ingredient registered across other registries we cover - including different brands.