Oxytocin injection

What is oxytocin injection?

OXYTOCIN (Pitocin®, Syntocinon®) is a natural hormone produced in the brain that causes the uterus to contract. Oxytocin can be used when labor needs to be induced or during labor if the contractions are not strong enough to progress normally. It is also used to control bleeding after childbirth. Oxytocin also can help to stimulate contractions if there is an incomplete abortion or miscarriage. Generic oxytocin injections are available.

What should my health care professional know before I receive oxytocin?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• breech, placenta previa, or other abnormal position of the fetus or umbilical cord

• cervical cancer

• eclampsia

• herpes infection

• more than 7 pregnancies

• premature delivery

• previous uterine surgery (including cesarean section)

• prolapsed uterus

• an unusual or allergic reaction to oxytocin, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

How should I use this medicine?

Oxytocin is for injection into a muscle or infusion into a vein. It is given by a health-care professional in a hospital or clinic setting where uterine contractions, mother's blood pressure and mother's and baby's heart rates can be monitored regularly, and where emergency measures can be taken immediately, if needed.

What if I miss a dose?

This does not apply.

What drug(s) may interact with oxytocin?

Oxytocin can interact with some other medicines. Your condition will be carefully monitored while you receive oxytocin.

Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.

What should I watch for while taking oxytocin?

Your condition will be closely monitored while you receive oxytocin.

What side effects may I notice from receiving oxytocin?

Side effects with oxytocin are rare. Serious side effects with oxytocin include:

• chest pain or difficulty breathing

• confusion

• difficulty passing urine, sudden weight gain

• excessive or continuing vaginal bleeding

• fast or irregular heartbeat (palpitations)

• seizures (convulsions)

• severe or continuing headaches

• skin rash or itching (hives)

• unusual swelling

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• irritation at the injection site

• nausea and vomiting

Where can I keep my medicine?

This medication is only given in a hospital or clinic. You will not keep this medicine at home.