Oxytocin

Description

Oxytocin is a hormone-based injection used in hospitals to help start or streng

then labour in full-term pregnant women when needed. It works by causing the uterus to contract more effectively, helping with the progression of childbirth. After delivery, doctors may also use Oxytocin to prevent or control excessive bleeding by helping the uterus tighten and return to its normal size. Since it acts strongly on the uterus, Oxytocin is always given under careful medical supervision, with continuous monitoring of both the mother and the baby to ensure safety and proper response.

Uses

Contraindications

Side effects

Precautions and Warnings

Uses

Oxytocin is used in pregnant women to induce labour.
It can also be used to control bleeding post-delivery.

Contraindications

When should one not use Oxytocin

If you are allergic to oxytocin
If you have problems with your heart or blood circulation
If you are suffering from a condition called preeclamptic toxaemia (symptoms may include high blood pressure, protein in the urine and swelling)
If there is an obstruction to normal delivery or normal delivery is not possible
If you have strong uterine contractions
If you have been given vaginal prostaglandins

Side effects

Common side effects of this drug are:

Nausea
Vomiting
Headache
Stomach pain
Drowsiness
Uneven heartbeats

Precautions and Warnings

Pregnancy

Can I take oxytocin during pregnancy?

Oxytocin is not given till the estimated date of delivery.

Breast Feeding

Can I take oxytocin while breastfeeding?

Oxytocin can pass into breast milk in small amounts but adverse effects in breastfed babies do not occur as the baby’s digestive system make it ineffective.

Driving

Can I drive if I have taken oxytocin?

As oxytocin causes uterine contractions, women should avoid driving.

Alcohol

Can I consume alcohol after taking oxytocin?

It is not advisable to consume alcohol with oxytocin. It may cause unwanted effects.

Other General Warnings

Talk to your doctor if

You have a history of caesarean section
You have chest pain
You have pre-existing heart disease, blood circulation problems, high blood pressure or kidney disease
Your age is more than 35 years
If normal delivery is difficult
You had complications during your pregnancy
Duration of your pregnancy is more than 40 weeks

Mode of Action

How Does It Work?

Oxytocin works by stimulating the uterine walls of the women, causing uterine contractions by changing the calcium concentrations in the uterine muscle cells. This induces labour and the child is deli...

Interactions

Interactions with other medicines

Some medicines can affect the way oxytocin works or this medicine itself can reduce the effectiveness of other medicines taken at the same time. Tell your doctor about all the medicines, supplements...

Interactions with food items

It is given only at the time of labour in a hospital setup. Hence, interaction with food is minimal. The doctor should be consulted for any food interactions. Fluid intake should be minimum as retenti...

Content Details

WRITTEN BY

Dr. Arpit Verma

MBBS, MD, CCEBDM Diabetology

REVIEWED BY

Dr. Ritu Budania

MBBS, MD (Pharmacology)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How does Oxytocin work?

A: Oxytocin works by stimulating the uterine walls of the women, causing uterine contractions by changing the calcium concentrations in the uterine muscle cells. This induces labour and the child is delivered.