METHYLERGOMETRINE POISONING IN THE NEWBORN: REPORT OF TWO CASES

Abstract

Methylergometrine is probably the most commonly used drug in obstetric care at all levels of the health care system. Many communities in Africa lack skilled birth attendants and adequate health systems; medication errors are more likely to occur and go unreported in these settings. The morbidity and mortality that result from these errors can be reduced if health care workers are better informed. We report two cases of medication error with methylergometrine and suggest guidelines for health care workers at the primary and secondary levels of health care.