Generic Name: oxytocin
Brand Names: Pitocin
Drug Class: Oxytocic Agents
What is oxytocin injectable, and what is it used for?
Oxytocin is a protein produced by the pituitary gland of mammals including man. Oxytocin is a man-made version of oxytocin used for stimulating contraction of the uterus.
Oxytocin works by increasing the concentration of calcium inside muscle cells that control contraction of the uterus. Increased calcium increases contraction of the uterus. The FDA approved oxytocin in November 1980.
What are the side effects of oxytocin injectable?
Side effects of oxytocin injectable include:
- nausea,
- vomiting,
- severe allergic reactions,
- bleeding after child birth,
- abnormal heart beats,
- high blood pressure, and
- rupture of the uterus.
What is the dosage for oxytocin injectable?
- For inducing labor the dose is 0.5 to 1 milliunits/minute given by intravenous injection and increased by 1 to 2 milliunits/minute every 15 to 60 minutes until contraction pattern is close to normal.
- For controlling bleeding after birth the dose is 10 units by injection at a rate of 20 to 40 milliunits/minute.
- Inevitable abortion is treated with 10 to 20 milliunits/minute not to exceed 30 units in a 12 hour period.
Is oxytocin injectable safe to take if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?
- Oxytocin should not be used during pregnancy unless for inducing labor or abortion.
- Oxytocin may be secreted in breast milk. Mothers should not nurse for at least one day after stopping oxytocin.
What else should I know about oxytocin injectable?
What preparations of oxytocin injectable are available?
- Injection: 10 units/ml
How should I keep oxytocin injectable stored?
- Oxytocin should be stored at room temperature, 15 C to 25 C (59 F to 77 F).
SLIDESHOW
Conception: The Amazing Journey from Egg to Embryo See SlideshowSummary
Oxytocin is an injectable drug used for inducing labor, controlling bleeding after childbirth, and for the treatment of incomplete or inevitable abortion. Side effects of oxytocin include nausea, vomiting, severe allergic reactions, bleeding after childbirth, abnormal heartbeats, high blood pressure, and rupture of the uterus. Oxytocin should not be used during pregnancy unless for inducing labor or abortion. Mothers should not nurse for at least one day after stopping oxytocin.
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Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
REFERENCE:
FDA Prescribing Information