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Oxytocin
FDA ApprovedSince 1980
Also known as Pitocin, Syntocinon
Function
Primary
Labor Induction · Postpartum Hemorrhage
Mechanism
Oxytocin receptor agonist — uterine contraction and hemostasis; CNS roles in bonding and social behavior.
Evidence
Clinical RCT (Phase III)
Research
Extensive obstetric trial data
Dosing
Range
0.5–20 mU/min (IV titration)
Frequency
Continuous IV
Route
Intravenous
Cycling
Continuous IV titration; not for outpatient cycling.
Benefits
- ·Effective labor induction/augmentation
- ·PPH prevention and treatment
Risks
- ·Uterine hyperstimulation
- ·Fetal distress
- ·Water intoxication
- ·Hyponatremia
Contraindications
- ·Cephalopelvic disproportion
- ·Fetal distress
- ·Placenta previa
- ·Prior classical uterine incision
Regulatory
FDA-Approved Rx
Functional Groups
Cited Works
- ACOG Practice Bulletin No. 107: Induction of Labor. Obstet Gynecol. 2009;114:386-97.