• Do not confuse oxytocin with Oxycontin.
• Do not administer oxytocin simultaneously by more than one route.
• IM: Ten units (1 mL) of oxytocin can be given after delivery of the placenta.

IV Administration:

• Rotate infusion container to ensure thorough mixing. Store solution in refrigerator, but do not freeze.

  • Infuse via infusion pump for accurate dose. Oxytocin should be connected via Y-site injection to an IV of 0.9% NaCl for use during adverse reactions.
  • Magnesium sulfate should be available if needed for relaxation of myometrium.
  • Dose of oxytocin is determined by uterine response.
• Induction of Labor: Diluent: Dilute 1 mL (10 units) in 1 L of compatible infusion fluid (0.9% NaCl, D5W, or LR).Concentration: 10 milliunits/mL.
• Rate: Begin infusion at 0.5–2 milliunits/min (0.05–0.2 mL); increase in increments of 1–2 milliunits/min at 15–30-min intervals until contractions simulate normal labor. Gradually increase dose at 30–60 min intervals in increments of 1–2 milliunits/min until the desired contraction pattern has been established. Once desired frequency of contractions has been reached and labor has progressed to 5–6 cm dilation, dose may be reduced by similar increments.
• Postpartum Bleeding: Diluent: For control of postpartum bleeding, dilute 1–4 mL (10–40 units) in 1 L of compatible infusion fluid.Concentration: 10–40 milliunits/mL.
• Rate: Begin infusion at a rate of 20–40 milliunits/min to control uterine atony. Adjust rate as indicated.
• Incomplete or Inevitable Abortion: Diluent: For incomplete or inevitable abortion, dilute 1 mL (10 units) in 500 mL of 0.9% NaCl or D5W.Concentration: 20 milliunits/mL.
• Rate: Infuse at a rate of 20–40 milliunits/min. Total dose should not exceed 30 units in a 12-hr period due to risk of water intoxication.