Next Generation Medical Management of Postpartum Hemorrhage

Background: Postpartum hemorrhage remains a significant contributor to morbidity and mortality of women of childbearing age worldwide. Trends in both incidence and severity of postpartum hemorrhage are increasing which makes it imperative to identify drugs that could target prevention and/or treatment of these postpartum hemorrhages for women living in high, middle and low-income countries. Methods: We have reviewed current advances in the medical management of postpartum hemorrhage focusing on non-uterotonic therapy. We specifically describe the use and mechanism of action of tranexamic acid (TXA) and fibrinogen concentrate. Furthermore, we address the existing data for using these medications in postpartum hemorrhage, highlighting both strengths and limitations. Results: This review describes a new generation of medications that are promising for the prevention and/or treatment of postpartum hemorrhage. For patients at risk for significant hemorrhage, TXA has been shown to reduce intraoperative blood loss and can be given as a prophylactic agent. For the treatment of postpartum hemorrhage, early use of TXA has the potential to reduce mortality. In addition, some data exists supporting the use of fibrinogen concentrate, though more studies are required to help formulate guidelines for its use. Conclusion: A promising new approach for the management of severe postpartum hemorrhage is using medications that alter coagulation. More data are needed to describe ideal patient populations, dosing, the time of administration, and infusion rate.