Key information summary
Efficacy & effects
This medication induces or promotes uterine contractions, aiding labor induction and mild pain relief, as well as treating hemorrhage after delivery, atonic uterine hemorrhage, and uterine atony. It is also used to manage uterine bleeding during the control of hemorrhage after cesarean section, miscarriage, and medical abortion procedures. Due to these effects, it is effective in normalizing uterine function and improving bleeding in obstetrics.
Dosage
As a general principle, it is administered as an intravenous drip. 1. Labor induction and pain relief - Intravenous drip Oxytocin is typically mixed at 5-10 units with 5% dextrose injection solution (500mL), starting the drip rate at 1-2 milliunits (mU) per minute, adjusting appropriately based on labor onset and fetal heart rate, without exceeding a drip rate of 20 milliunits per minute. 2. Postpartum hemorrhage, atonic uterine hemorrhage,
Precautions
This drug is used to induce labor or relieve pain. However, if uterine contractions are too strong, it may pose a risk to the fetus, and serious complications such as uterine rupture or amniotic fluid embolism may occur, so it must be used with great caution. Careful observation of the patient and fetal condition is necessary during administration, especially in patients with a history of cesarean section or uterine surgery. It is important to continuously monitor the fetal heart rate and uterine contraction status using a labor monitoring device. The effect of this drug on the uterus varies from person to person, so it should be started slowly with a small amount and adjusted based on the condition. It is best used when the cervix is adequately prepared, and the simultaneous use of cervical ripening agents should be avoided. Additionally, it should not be used in conjunction with prostaglandin preparations, and it should not be administered to patients who have had allergies to this drug or similar medications. This drug is also not used in patients with heart, kidney, or vascular issues or those with gestational hypertension, multiple pregnancies, or uterine infections. During administration, careful observation for excessive uterine contractions or fetal abnormalities is required, and side effects may include shock, uterine hyperstimulation, fetal distress, changes in blood pressure, nausea, vomiting, and allergic reactions. This medication is generally administered via intravenous injection, with intramuscular injection reserved for exceptional cases. Signs of water intoxication may occur, so fluid intake and condition must be well managed, and individuals with latex allergies should be cautious as they are at higher risk for anaphylaxis. When using this medication with others, there may be interactions, so consulting with medical personnel is essential. The use of this medication during pregnancy poses risks to the fetus, so it should only be used when absolutely necessary, and caution is advised during breastfeeding as it may impact the baby. In cases of overdose, excessive uterine contractions and coma or seizures due to water intoxication may occur, so administration should be stopped immediately, and appropriate treatment should be administered. The rate of administration should be adjusted slowly, and if uterine muscles are overactive, administration should be stopped or the dose reduced.
Side effects
Hives, severe swelling (edema), chest tightness, difficulty breathing, cold sweat, pallor → severe allergic reactions. High fever with severe rash, blisters, skin peeling, oral/eye mucosal pain → severe skin reactions. Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, asthma attacks, cough with fever → respiratory issues. Skin or eyes turning yellow (jaundice), extreme lethargy → liver issues (jaundice). Sudden and