Name

oxytocin (Pitocin®)

Class

Pituitary Hormone

Description/Mechanism

Oxytocin means ‘rapid birth" and is a synthetic hormone named for the natural posterior pituitary hormone. It stimulates uterine smooth muscle contractions indirectly, and helps expedite the normal contractions of a spontaneous labor. As with all significant uterine contractions, there is a transient reduction in uterine blood flow. Oxytocin also stimulates the mammary glands to increase lactation, without increasing the production of milk. The drug is administered in the prehospital setting to control postpartum bleeding.

Onset

IV immediate

IM within 3-5 minutes

Duration

IV 20 minutes after the infusion stops

IM 30-60 minutes

Indications

Postpartum hemorrhage after infant and placenta delivery

Contraindications

Presence of a second fetus

Adverse Reactions

Uterine rupture

Hypotension/Hypertension

Dysrhythmias/tachycardia

Angina

Nausea and vomiting

Drug Interactions

Vasopressors may potentiate hypertension

Supplied

10 USP units/1ml ampule and prefilled syringe

5 USP units/1ml ampule and prefilled syringe

Dose/Administration

Adult

IM: 3-10 units

IV: Mix 10 units in 1000 ml NS, infuse at 20-30 drops/min, titrated to severity of bleeding

Pediatric

Hopefully, not indicated.

Special Consideration

Pregnancy Safety: NA

Vital signs and uterine tone should be closely monitored