Carboprost tromethamine (PGF2-alpha analogue) is being considered for management of atonic postpartum haemorrhage unresponsive to oxytocin. A careful history must be taken because the drug is relatively contraindicated in women with:

• A Bronchial asthma ✓
• B Migraine with aura
• C Hypothyroidism
• D Previous caesarean delivery

Explanation

PGF2-alpha is a physiological bronchoconstrictor, and carboprost commonly causes transient bronchospasm, wheezing, cough and dyspnoea even in normal women. In asthmatic patients this can precipitate severe, potentially life-threatening bronchospasm, so asthma is a well-established relative contraindication. Its other characteristic adverse effects are vomiting, diarrhoea and fever from smooth muscle and thermoregulatory effects. Migraine, hypothyroidism and prior caesarean delivery are not specific concerns with carboprost.

Reference: Katzung's Basic and Clinical Pharmacology, 15th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.