Low-Dose vs. Standard Carbetocin in Elective Cesarean Delivery

Heat stable carbetocin, a novel uterotonic can be used as a standard practice in vaginal and cesarean deliveries. It has been observed that lower doses of uterotonics are equally beneficial as standard doses in elective cesarean deliveries. 

This randomised parallel group trial was conducted to contrast the potency and safety of 50 mcg carbetocin (lower dose) to 100mcg carbetocin (standard dose) for the prevention of postpartum hemorrhage during elective cesarean delivery. The study categorized a total of 212 term pregnant women into two group. Group I received 50 mcg of carbetocin while Group II received 100 mcg of carbetocin. Both groups were evaluated for blood loss, tone of the uterus, use of additional uterotonics or styptics, requirement of blood transfusions and adverse effects of the drug.

The results demonstrated no statistically remarkable variations in both the groups in regard to blood loss, uterine tone, blood transfusions or additional use of uterotonics or styptics.

To conclude, a lower dose of 50 mcg of carbetocin is as efficient as the standard 100 mcg dose in preventing postpartum hemorrhage during elective cesarean delivery..

Source: Yaliwal RG. Comapring a lower dose of carbetocin to the standard dose of carbetocin in the prevention of postpartum hemorrhage during elective cesarean delivery: A randomised parallel group trial. Indian Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology Research. 2024;11(3): 479-483. https://doi.org/10.18231/j.ijogr.2024.086