Oxytocin

PITOCIN

Pronunciation: ox-i-TOE-sin

What it isOxytocin- and V1-receptor agonist; labor induction or augmentation and postpartum hemorrhage control.

Why this oneIt is the standard first-line uterotonic for augmenting labor and preventing or treating postpartum bleeding.

What limits it⚑ Uterine tachysystole can distress the fetus; excessive exposure with dilute fluid can cause water intoxication and hyponatremia.

FDA-approved for

⚠ BOXED WARNING

Therapeutic safety burden3 / 4

Overdose danger3 / 4

Weight-gain liability0 / 4

Sedation liability0 / 4

QT / Torsades0 / 4

Direct muscarinic antagonism0 / 4

Embryofetal risk3 / 4

Defining liabilityUterine hyperstimulation, fetal hypoxia and water intoxication

no kinetic interactions