About oxytocin
Oxytocic hormone
Used for
- Inducing or strengthening labour contractions
- Preventing or treating bleeding after childbirth
- Managing incomplete miscarriage
Usual adult dose
Labour induction: usually start at 1–2 milliunits/minute by controlled IV infusion, adjusted gradually. Postpartum bleeding: commonly 10 IU by infusion or injection.
Common side effects
- Excessively strong or prolonged contractions
- Nausea or vomiting
- Low blood pressure or abnormal heart rhythm
- Water retention and low blood sodium
Important warnings
- IV use requires close monitoring of contractions and fetal heart rate.
- Excessive contractions can cause fetal distress, uterine rupture, or reduced oxygen supply.
- Not suitable for routine labour induction when vaginal birth is unsafe.
- Water intoxication may occur, especially with prolonged infusion and excess fluids.
Pregnancy
Used during labour or after birth when clinically indicated; requires hospital monitoring.
Breastfeeding
Usually compatible; oxytocin occurs naturally and does not generally require stopping breastfeeding.
Interactions
- Prostaglandins may intensify uterine contractions.
- Some anaesthetics can increase low blood pressure or heart rhythm effects.
- Vasoconstrictors may raise blood pressure when used with oxytocin.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.