Oxytocin

Generic Details

Generic Name

Oxytocin

Other Names

  • Pitocin
  • Syntocinon

Drug Class

  • Uterotonic hormone

Chemical Formula

C43H66N12O12S2

Molecular Weight

1007.19 g/mol

Mechanism of Action

  • Oxytocin stimulates uterine contractions by binding to oxytocin receptors on the myometrium.

Indications

  • Induction of labor
  • Augmentation of labor
  • Management of postpartum hemorrhage
  • Stimulation of milk ejection during breastfeeding

Common Dosage Forms

  • Injection
  • Nasal spray

Typical Dosage

  • Labor induction: 0.5 to 1 milliunit per minute IV infusion, increased by 1 to 2 milliunits per minute every 15 to 60 minutes as needed
  • Postpartum hemorrhage: 10 to 40 units IM after delivery of the placenta

Pediatric Dosage

  • Not applicable

Geriatric Dosage

  • Dose adjustment may be required based on renal function

Side Effects

  • Hypotension
  • Uterine hypertonicity
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Water retention
  • Allergic reactions

Contraindications

  • Hypersensitivity to oxytocin
  • Unfavorable fetal position or presentation
  • Cephalopelvic disproportion
  • Uterine fibroids
  • Abnormal fetal heart rate

Pregnancy Category

  • Category X - contraindicated in pregnancy unless the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus

Lactation Safety

  • Compatible with breastfeeding

Drug Interactions

  • Caution with concomitant use of vasopressors or other uterotonics

Overdose Symptoms

  • Water intoxication
  • Uterine rupture
  • Seizures

Antidote for Overdose

  • Stop oxytocin infusion and provide supportive treatment for symptoms

Storage Conditions

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

Pharmacokinetics

  • Absorption: Well absorbed after injection or nasal administration
  • Distribution: Crosses the placenta and is excreted in breast milk
  • Metabolism: Metabolized in the liver
  • Excretion: Excreted in the urine

Precautions

  • Monitor fetal heart rate and uterine contractions closely during administration
  • Use with caution in patients with cardiovascular disease or hypertension

Warnings

  • Should only be administered by healthcare professionals trained in obstetrical care
  • Avoid rapid IV administration to prevent sudden changes in uterine tone

Others

  • Oxytocin is also being studied for its potential role in social bonding and trust between individuals.