Carboprost
Carboprost is a synthetic prostaglandin F2α analog used primarily to control postpartum hemorrhage when conventional treatments are ineffective, and to induce termination of pregnancy in the second trimester. It works by stimulating powerful uterine contractions that compress bleeding vessels and facilitate expulsion of uterine contents.
Carboprost is a prostaglandin analog that controls postpartum bleeding and terminates second-trimester pregnancies by inducing strong uterine contractions.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- G02AD04
- RxNorm
- 2051
- Generic
- Carboprost
- Class
- atc-g02
- Brands
- Hemabate
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- injection, prefilled syringe
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Dosage and administration
- Usual dose
- 250 mcg IM or intramyometrial
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- may repeat every 15-90 minutes as needed, maximum 8 doses
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- not typically indicated for pediatric patients
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- not applicable
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 250 mcg IM or intramyometrial
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- may repeat every 15-90 minutes as needed, maximum 8 doses
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
Overdose information
Special Populations
7 groupspregnancy
first trimesteravoid if possible
avoid use during pregnancy unless benefits outweigh risks; not indicated for routine use in first trimester
regular fetal monitoring if used
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
pregnancy
second third trimesteruse lowest effective dose
used for postpartum hemorrhage and pregnancy termination in second trimester when medically necessary
intensive maternal and fetal monitoring
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
lactation
breastfeedingdiscontinue breastfeeding
avoid breastfeeding during treatment and for at least 24 hours after administration
monitor infant for adverse effects
pediatric_age
under 12 yearsnot recommended
not indicated for use in children under 12 years of age
not applicable
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
geriatric
elderlyreduce dose by 50%
use with caution in elderly patients; start with lower dose and titrate slowly
monitor vital signs and renal function closely
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
renal_impairment
moderate to severereduce dose by 50%
use with caution; renal function may affect drug clearance
monitor renal function tests closely; adjust dose based on creatinine clearance
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
hepatic_impairment
moderate to severereduce dose by 50%
use with caution; hepatic metabolism may be impaired
monitor liver function tests closely
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
Statistics and clinical data
Drug class
Prostaglandin analog classification
FDA approval year
Original FDA approval date for Hemabate
Primary indications
Main therapeutic indications
Route of administration
Standard route of administration
Treatment of postpartum hemorrhage refractory to conventional measures; induction of mid-trimester pregnancy termination; management of missed abortion or intrauterine fetal death requiring evacuation.
Acts as a prostaglandin F2α receptor agonist in the myometrium, triggering vigorous uterine contractions that compress spiral arteries to achieve hemostasis, while also promoting cervical ripening and softening.
Typically administered intramuscularly; common adverse effects include fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea; contraindicated in patients with active asthma, cardiovascular impairment, or known prostaglandin hypersensitivity; requires careful hemodynamic monitoring during use.
Contraindications
Conditions and patient states where this medication should be avoided or used with caution.
Do not use (1)
Known allergy to this medication or its components
Use caution (1)
Consult healthcare provider for benefits vs risks assessment
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 24, 2026. · Read our editorial policy