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Indications ⬇

IM:

High Alert

Contraind./Precautions ⬆ ⬇

Contraindicated in:

Use Cautiously in:

Adv. Reactions/Side Effects ⬆ ⬇

Maternal adverse reactions are noted for IV use only

CV: maternalhypotension, fetalarrhythmias

F and E: maternalhypochloremia, hyponatremia, water intoxication

GU: maternal↑uterine motility, painful contractions, abruptio placentae, ↓uterine blood flow

Neuro: maternalCOMA, SEIZURES. , fetalINTRACRANIAL HEMORRHAGE

Resp: fetalASPHYXIA, hypoxia

Misc: hypersensitivity reactions

Interactions ⬆ ⬇

Drug-drug:

Availability ⬆ ⬇

(Generic available)

Route/Dosage ⬆ ⬇

Induction/Stimulation of Labor

Postpartum Hemorrhage

Incomplete/Inevitable Abortion

US Brand Names ⬆ ⬇

Pitocin

Action ⬆ ⬇

  • Stimulates uterine smooth muscle, producing uterine contractions similar to those in spontaneous labor.
  • Has vasopressor and antidiuretic effects.
Therapeutic effects:
  • Induction of labor.
  • Control of postpartum bleeding.

Classifications ⬆ ⬇

Therapeutic Classification: hormones

Pharmacologic Classification: oxytocics

Pharmacokinetics ⬆ ⬇

Absorption: IV administration results in complete bioavailability.

Distribution: Widely distributed in extracellular fluid. Small amounts reach fetal circulation.

Metabolism/Excretion: Rapidly metabolized by liver and kidneys. Primarily excreted in urine as metabolites.

Half-Life: 3–9 min.

Time/Action Profile ⬆ ⬇

(↓ in uterine contractions)
ROUTEONSETPEAKDURATION
IVimmediateunknown1 hr
IM3–5 minunknown30–60 min

Patient/Family Teaching ⬆ ⬇

Pronunciation ⬆ ⬇

ox-i-TOE-sin

Code ⬆

NDC Code