Prostaglandins & Oxytocin's

Question 1

Prostaglandins & Oxytocin’s

Answer 1

Induce labour or abortion

Minimise blood loss from placenta
- Induce uterine contractions with different pain levels.

EXAMPLES:
Oxytocin, gemeprost, carboprost, ergometrine.

Ectopic pregnancy - can use systemic methotrexate

Question 1

Abortion drugs

Answer 1

Gemeprost - Prostaglandin given vaginally as pessary.

Misoprostol - prostaglandin given via mouth or vagina but unlicensed

Mifepristone - can help abortion - sensitises uterus to prostaglandin so shorter time and lower dose needed of prostaglandin
- Single dose used then prostaglandin is given

Question 2

Labour drugs

Answer 2

Dinoprostone, Oxytocin, Misoprostol.

Bleeding from miscarriage or abortion controlled by oxytocin & ergometrine
- These 2 drugs more effective together in early pregnancy rather than alone

Carboprost used in severe post partum haemorrhage

Question 3

Topical HRT for Vaginal atrophy

Answer 3

Vaginal Atrophy
Thinning, drying & inflammation of vaginal walls due to oestrogen production loss (mostly happens post menopause)
- Can use a oestrogen containing cream
low doe oestrogen so reduces AEs chance.
- with systemic oestrogen used for prolonged periods there more risk of hyperplasia/carcinoma
EXAMPLES OF TOPICAL OESTROGEN:
Ovestin, gynest, vagifem.