What Is Methylergonovine? Uses, Dosage, and What You Need to Know in 2026

If you've been prescribed Methylergonovine after having a baby, you may be looking for clear, reliable information about what this drug actually is and why your doctor prescribed it. This guide covers the essentials: what it's used for, how to take it, what to watch for, and what you need to know about getting it filled in 2026.

What Is Methylergonovine?

Methylergonovine (generic name: methylergonovine maleate; formerly sold under the brand name Methergine, which has been permanently discontinued) is a semi-synthetic ergot alkaloid medication. It belongs to the drug class known as uterotonic agents or oxytocics — medications that cause the uterus to contract.

Methylergonovine has been on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines (24th list, 2025) — a recognition of its critical role in maternal healthcare worldwide. However, it is not a commonly found medication at most retail pharmacies in the U.S. due to supply chain issues we explain below.

What Is Methylergonovine Used For?

FDA-approved uses:

Prevention and control of postpartum hemorrhage (PPH): Excessive bleeding after childbirth. The most common reason it is prescribed.

Control of uterine bleeding during the puerperium: The weeks following delivery where continued bleeding or subinvolution is a concern.

Off-label uses (use outside the FDA-approved indication):

Refractory or status migrainosus (severe, treatment-resistant migraines)

Management of retained products of conception after missed abortion (miscarriage)

Diagnostic coronary vasospasm testing in variant angina (a hospital procedure)

What Forms Does Methylergonovine Come In?

Oral tablet: 0.2 mg — the form most patients fill at a pharmacy for home use

Injectable solution: 0.2 mg/mL (1 mL ampule) — used in hospital settings by IM or IV injection

What Is the Dosage for Methylergonovine?

For oral tablets (the form most patients fill at home):

Standard dose: 0.2 mg (1 tablet) taken 3 or 4 times daily

Maximum duration: Up to 1 week postpartum (longer use only under direct physician guidance)

Take as directed by your doctor — do not take more or less than prescribed

For injectable (hospital use):

0.2 mg IM every 2-4 hours as needed, up to 5 doses

IV route is only used in emergencies, given slowly over at least 60 seconds with blood pressure monitoring

Is Methylergonovine a Controlled Substance?

No. Methylergonovine is not a DEA-controlled substance. It has no DEA schedule. However, it is a prescription-only medication because of its potent effects on the uterus and cardiovascular system. It requires a prescription from a licensed provider.

Who Should NOT Take Methylergonovine?

Methylergonovine is contraindicated in patients with:

Hypertension, preeclampsia, or eclampsia

Known allergy or hypersensitivity to ergot alkaloids

Coronary artery disease or significant CAD risk factors

Peripheral vascular disease

Pregnancy (before delivery of the baby) — it is a powerful uterotonic that can cause premature labor or miscarriage

How Much Does Methylergonovine Cost?

Retail cash price can be as high as $375 for 6 tablets (0.2 mg), but with a GoodRx or SingleCare coupon, the same prescription costs $32–$35. See our guide on how to save money on Methylergonovine for a full breakdown.

Is Methylergonovine Hard to Find in 2026?

Yes — brand-name Methergine was permanently discontinued, and the generic is not consistently stocked at retail pharmacies. If you're having trouble filling your prescription, medfinder can call pharmacies near you to find which ones have it in stock.