Oxytocin

Oxytocin is a hormone that is used to induce labor or strengthen uterine contractions, or to control bleeding after childbirth

Introduction

Generic name: Oxytocin

Brand names: Pitocin, Syntocinon

Drug class: Uterotonic agents

Directions for use

  • Oxytocin is injected into a muscle, or given as an infusion into a vein. A healthcare provider will give you this injection.

  • Your contractions and other vital signs will be watched closely while you are receiving oxytocin. This will help your doctor determine how long to treat you with oxytocin.

  • During labor, your baby’s heart rate will also be watched with a fetal heart monitor to evaluate any effects of oxytocin on the baby.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Since oxytocin is used when needed, it does not have a daily dosing schedule.

What happens if I overdose?

Since oxytocin is given by a healthcare professional in a medical setting, you will be constantly monitored to make sure you are receiving the correct dose.

Side effects

Tell your caregivers at once if you have:

  • A fast, slow, or uneven heart rate

  • Excessive bleeding long after childbirth

  • Severe headache, blurred vision, pounding in your neck or ears

  • Confusion, severe weakness, feeling unsteady.

Oxytocin may cause serious or life-threatening side effects in the newborn baby, including:

  • Slow heartbeats or other abnormal heart rate

  • Jaundice (a yellow appearance of the baby’s skin)

  • A seizure

  • Eye problems

  • Problems with breathing, muscle tone, and other signs of health.

What drugs will affect oxytocin?

Other drugs may affect oxytocin, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all your current medicines and any medicine you start or stop using.

Warnings

Before you receive oxytocin, tell your doctor about all your medical conditions or allergies, and all the medicines you are using.

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