Carbetocin

Generic Details

Generic Name

Carbetocin

Other Names

  • Duratocin

Drug Class

  • Oxytocic agent

Chemical Formula

C45H69N11O12S2

Molecular Weight

988.22 g/mol

Mechanism of Action

  • Carbetocin is a synthetic analogue of oxytocin, a natural hormone. It selectively stimulates oxytocin receptors, leading to uterine contractions.

Indications

  • Prevention of uterine atony following cesarean section or vaginal delivery

Common Dosage Forms

  • Injection

Typical Dosage

  • 100 mcg intravenously or intramuscularly after delivery of the baby

Pediatric Dosage

    Geriatric Dosage

      Side Effects

      • Nausea
      • Vomiting
      • Hypotension
      • Headache

      Contraindications

      • Hypersensitivity to carbetocin

      Pregnancy Category

      • Category B - Animal reproduction studies have failed to demonstrate a risk to the fetus and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women.

      Lactation Safety

      • Limited data available, use with caution

      Drug Interactions

        Overdose Symptoms

        • Uterine hypertonicity leading to decreased uterine blood flow

        Antidote for Overdose

        • Symptomatic and supportive treatment

        Storage Conditions

        • Store at room temperature (20-25°C)

        Pharmacokinetics

        • Absorption: Well absorbed after intramuscular or intravenous administration
        • Distribution: Distributed mainly in plasma and does not cross the blood-brain barrier
        • Metabolism: Metabolized in the liver
        • Excretion: Excreted mainly in urine

        Precautions

        • Monitor blood pressure during administration
        • Use with caution in patients with cardiovascular diseases

        Warnings

        • Not for elective induction of labor
        • Use with caution in patients with asthma

        Others

        • Carbetocin has a longer duration of action compared to oxytocin, which can reduce the need for additional uterotonic agents post-delivery.