provider image
Welcome! You’re in GoodRx for healthcare professionals. Now, you’ll enjoy a streamlined experience created specifically for healthcare professionals.
Skip to main content
Methylergonovine Coupon - Methylergonovine 0.2mg tablet

methylergonovine

Generic Methergine
Used for Hemorrhage
Used for Hemorrhage

Methylergonovine (Methergine) is used to help control bleeding in women who are bleeding too much during delivery or after giving birth. It's typically taken 3 or 4 times a day, but shouldn't be used for more than 1 week. Possible side effects of methylergonovine (Methergine) include high blood pressure, stomach pain, nausea, and vomiting. This medication is available as both brand name (Methergine) and generic name (methylergonovine).

Reviewed by:
reviewer
Aileen Chu, PharmD, BCPS
reviewer
Kristianne Hannemann, PharmD
Last reviewed on April 24, 2023
BasicsSide effectsPros & consPharmacist tipsFAQsWarningsDosageInteractionsCostContraindicationsImagesReferencesPricesMedicare
basics-icon

What is Methylergonovine (Methergine)?

What is Methylergonovine (Methergine) used for?

  • Bleeding during delivery or after giving birth

How Methylergonovine (Methergine) works

Methylergonovine (Methergine) is an ergot derivative. It causes muscle contractions (tightening) in the uterus. This helps women get through the last part of labor and lessen the amount of bleeding.

Drug Facts

Common BrandsMethergine
Drug ClassErgot derivative
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusLower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription only
coupon-save-icon

Get your GoodRx coupon

Avg retail price
$217.55(save 82.81%)
GoodRx discount
$37.39
See prices
basics-icon

What are the side effects of Methylergonovine (Methergine)?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

  • High blood pressure

Other Side Effects

  • Headache due to high blood pressure
  • Low blood pressure
  • Stomach pain due to uterine contractions
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting

Serious Side Effects

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
  • Heart attack: chest pain or tightness, pain spreading to your left arm or neck, difficulty breathing
  • Extremely high blood pressure: seizure, headache, blurry vision

Source: DailyMed

The following side effects have also been reported

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:

More common

Abdominal pain

headache

increased blood pressure

Rare

Blood in the urine

change in skin color

chest pain or discomfort

difficult or labored breathing

difficulty with swallowing

dizziness

fast, pounding, or irregular heartbeat or pulse

hives

lightheadedness, dizziness, or fainting

pain or discomfort in the arms, jaw, back, or neck

pain, tenderness, or swelling of the foot or leg

puffiness or swelling of the eyelids or around the eyes, face, lips, or tongue

slow or fast heartbeat

skin rash

sweating

vomiting

Incidence not known

Burning, crawling, itching, numbness, prickling, "pins and needles", or tingling feelings

confusion

dizziness, faintness, or lightheadedness when getting up suddenly from a lying or sitting position

fainting

inability to speak

seizures

severe or sudden headache

slurred speech

temporary blindness

weakness in the arm or leg on one side of the body, sudden and severe

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

Rare

Continuous ringing or buzzing or other unexplained noise in the ears

cramps in the legs

diarrhea

foul taste

increased sweating

nausea

stuffy nose

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

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

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Methylergonovine (Methergine)

thumbs-up

Pros

Tablets work within 10 minutes to help with bleeding

Available as a lower-cost generic medication

thumbs-down

Cons

Can't breastfeed while taking the medication

Might need to take it multiple times a day

Raises blood pressure

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Methylergonovine (Methergine)

pharmacist

  • Methylergonovine (Methergine) is usually given in the hospital or clinic. But, if you're taking it at home, it's a good idea to check your blood pressure every day. This is because methylergonovine (Methergine) can raise your blood pressure. Let your provider know if your blood pressure is higher than usual.

    • Don't breastfeed while taking methylergonovine (Methergine) and at least 12 hours after your last dose. This medication can pass into your breast milk and potentially harm your baby. Throw away any milk that you make during this time. Discuss with your provider about safe ways to feed your baby while you're taking methylergonovine (Methergine).

      • It's possible for methylergonovine (Methergine) to make it harder for your body to produce milk. It's okay if you notice that you aren't making as much milk as you'd hope while taking this medication. Speak with your provider if you have any concerns about how much milk you're making during treatment.

        • Methylergonovine (Methergine) can cause stomach pain and cramps since it works by making the muscles in your uterus contract (tighten). This medication can also cause nausea and vomiting. Let your provider know if these side effects are too bothersome or preventing you from eating or drinking.

          • Tell your provider about all of the medications you're currently taking since methylergonovine (Methergine) can potentially interact with many different medications. Some interactions can lead to dangerous side effects (e.g., very high blood pressure, blood flow problems), while others can prevent methylergonovine (Methergine) from working as well.

            faqs

            Frequently asked questions about Methylergonovine (Methergine)

            How long does it take methylergonovine (Methergine) to work?
            When taken by mouth, methylergonovine (Methergine) starts working to help lessen bleeding in about 5 to 10 minutes after taking a dose. When given by injection, the medication starts working even quicker (within 5 minutes).
            Does methylergonovine (Methergine) cause cramping?
            It can. Methylergonovine (Methergine) causes the muscles in your womb to become tighter (contract). By doing so, the medication can cause stomach pain and cramping. If the pain or cramping becomes too bothersome, tell your provider. They might be able to give you medication to help with the pain or adjust your methylergonovine (Methergine) dose.
            Does methylergonovine (Methergine) increase blood pressure?
            Because of the way it works, methylergonovine (Methergine) can tighten blood vessels. Tighter blood vessels cause your blood pressure to go up. One small study found that 11% of people who took methylergonovine (Methergine) experienced a rise in their blood pressure. If you already have high blood pressure (hypertension), you shouldn't take methylergonovine (Methergine). This medication can be dangerous for people whose blood pressure is already high because it can worsen your condition and lead to life-threatening issues. Very high blood pressure can lead to heart attack, stroke, and other serious problems. Speak with your provider if you have concerns about how methylergonovine (Methergine) might raise your blood pressure. They might recommend that you check your blood pressure every day while you're taking the medication.
            Is methylergonovine (Methergine) used for abortion?
            Methylergonovine (Methergine) isn't FDA approved for medical abortions. But, the National Abortion Federation lists methylergonovine (Methergine) as an off-label option to give after an abortion to help stop bleeding if you're bleeding too much. Speak with your provider to learn more about using methylergonovine (Methergine) for this purpose.
            GoodRxEducationalIcon

            How to save using GoodRx

            Compare Prices
            1. Compare PricesSpecify your dosage and quantity to find out exactly how much you can save.
            Select your free coupon
            2. Select your free couponYou can use the displayed coupon, or compare prices at other pharmacies near you.
            Show coupon to your pharmacist
            3. Show coupon to your pharmacistPresent your printed or electronic coupon when you pick up your prescription.
            Get free couponLearn more
            warings-icon

            What are the risks and warnings for Methylergonovine (Methergine)?

            Methylergonovine (Methergine) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

            risk-warning

            Don't breastfeed while taking methylergonovine (Methergine)

            Don't breastfeed while taking methylergonovine (Methergine) and at least 12 hours after your last dose of medication. Methylergonovine (Methergine) can get into breast milk and harm your baby. Be aware that methylergonovine (Methergine) can also make it harder for your body to produce milk. So, don't be too concerned if you aren't making as much milk while taking this medication.

            risk-warning

            Risk of heart attack

            • Risk factors: Heart disease | Risk of heart disease, such as smoking, obesity, high blood sugar (diabetes), or high cholesterol

              Methylergonovine (Methergine) can tighten your blood vessels, which can make it hard for blood to reach your heart muscles. Not enough blood flow to the heart can lead to heart damage or even a heart attack. This is more likely to happen if you have problems with the arteries in your heart or if you're at high risk of having heart problems. It's important that your provider knows all of your medical conditions beforehand. Call 911 or get medical help right away if you experience chest pain or tightness, pain spreading to your left arm or neck, or difficulty breathing. These can be signs of a heart attack.

              dosage

              Methylergonovine (Methergine) dosage forms

              The average cost for 4 tablets of 0.2mg of Methylergonovine (Methergine) is $37.39 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 82.81% off the average retail price of $217.55.
              tablet
              Tablet
              DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
              0.2mg4 tablets$37.39$9.35

              Typical dosing for Methylergonovine (Methergine)

              The typical dose is 0.2 mg by mouth three or four times daily for a maximum of 1 week.

              Methylergonovine (Methergine) is also available as an injection that's given through the vein (IV) or into a muscle by a trained healthcare provider.

              interactions

              Interactions between Methylergonovine (Methergine) and other drugs

              Methylergonovine (Methergine) may interact with certain medications or supplements. Always let your doctor and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that you are currently taking. The list below does not include all possible drug interactions with Methylergonovine (Methergine). Please note that only the generic name of each medication is listed below.

              Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is not recommended. Your doctor may decide not to treat you with this medication or change some of the other medicines you take.

              Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

              drug-cost

              How much does Methylergonovine (Methergine) cost?

              To access savings, use a GoodRx coupon and pay just a fraction of the retail price.
              Methergine (brand)
              GoodRx lowest price

              $37.39

              (save 54.86%)
              Methylergonovine (Methergine) (generic)
              GoodRx lowest price

              $37.39

              (save 82.81%)
              View prices & coupons
              contraindications-icon

              Methylergonovine (Methergine) contraindications

              Contraindications are specific health conditions or situations in which a person should not take a medication due to safety concerns. If you have any of the following conditions or if any of the following apply to you, let your healthcare provider know because Methylergonovine (Methergine) will not be safe for you to take.

              • High blood pressure

              • Preeclampsia (high blood pressure during pregnancy)

              • Currently pregnant

              images

              Methylergonovine (Methergine) images

              White Round 2J And Tv - Methylergonovine Maleate 0.2mg Tablet
              This medicine is White, Round Tablet Imprinted With "Tv" And "2J".White Round 2J And Tv - Methylergonovine Maleate 0.2mg Tablet

              Get savings updates for Methylergonovine (Methergine)

              Receive price alerts, news, and other messages from GoodRx about Methylergonovine (Methergine) and other healthcare topics and relevant savings offers.

              By signing up, I agree to GoodRx's Terms and Privacy Policy, and to receive marketing messages from GoodRx.

              References

              Best studies we found

              American Regent, Inc. (2019). METHYLERGONOVINE MALEATE injection, solution. DailyMed. 

              Bateman, B. T., et al. (2013). Methylergonovine maleate and the risk of myocardial ischemia and infarction. American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology. 

              Kerns, F., et al. (2012). Management of postabortion hemorrhage. Contraception. 

              View All References (6)

              National Abortion Federation. (2022). 2022 clinical policy guidelines for abortion care. 

              National Institute of Child Health and Human Development. (2018). Methylergonovine. LactMed. 

              Rising Pharma Holdings, Inc. (2021). METHYLERGONOVINE MALEATE tablet. DailyMed. 

              Schade, F. F. (1951). Methergine: A study of its vasomotor properties. American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology. 

              GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.
              Was this page helpful?

              Browse medications

              View All

              Research prescriptions and over-the-counter medications from A to Z, compare drug prices, and start saving.