Pharmacology · Class
Prostaglandin analogues (obstetric use) !
Synthetic prostaglandins that contract the uterus and soften the cervix: used for bleeding after birth, induction of labour and pregnancy loss.
Updated 2026-11-01
What they are
Analogues of prostaglandin E1 (misoprostol), E2 (dinoprostone) and F2α (carboprost). They act on prostanoid receptors of the myometrium and cervix. Misoprostol is a heat-stable tablet on the WHO essential list; carboprost is an injection for haemorrhage that does not respond to first-line drugs.
Mechanism of action
They bind prostanoid G protein-coupled receptors: EP receptors (prostaglandin E) and the FP receptor (prostaglandin F2α). In the myometrium they raise intracellular calcium and cause contractions; in the cervix they break down collagen and soften it. They also contract smooth muscle in the gut and bronchi, which explains diarrhoea, vomiting and bronchospasm.
Target: Prostanoid receptors (EP and FP)
Drugs in this class
- MisoprostolProstaglandin E1 analogue tablet that contracts the uterus and softens the cervix, and protects the stomach…Prostaglandin E receptor EP3 (and other EP receptors)
- CarboprostInjectable prostaglandin F2α analogue that contracts the uterus when bleeding after birth does not respond to…Prostaglandin F2α receptor (FP)
Others in the class
- Dinoprostone
- Dinoprost
- Gemeprost
- Sulprostone
Test yourself
Think of the answer, then tap the question to see it.
Which prostaglandin analogue is contraindicated or used with great caution in asthma, and why?
Carboprost (a PGF2α analogue): it contracts bronchial smooth muscle and can cause bronchospasm.
What does WHO list misoprostol for in postpartum haemorrhage?
Prevention and treatment where oxytocin is not available or cannot be used safely; it needs no cold chain.
Why do prostaglandin analogues cause diarrhoea?
They also contract the smooth muscle of the gut and increase intestinal secretion.
Educational content on how drugs work; not a prescribing guide and no substitute for a health professional's advice. No doses are given.
Sources: DailyMed - MISOPROSTOL tablet (DailyMed (U.S. National Library of Medicine), 2026); DailyMed - CARBOPROST TROMETHAMINE- carboprost tromethamine injection, solution (DailyMed (U.S. National Library of Medicine), 2026); eEML - Electronic Essential Medicines List (World Health Organization, 2025); ATCDDD - ATC/DDD Index (WHO Collaborating Centre for Drug Statistics Methodology, 2026).
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Representative model, for educational purposes only.