Oxytocin Injection BP

## Composition and Pharmacology

– **Oxytocin Injection BP** is available in concentrations of **5 IU/ml** and **10 IU/ml**, containing **chlorobutanol** and **water for injection**  .

– It is a **synthetic nonapeptide** that mimics the natural hormone oxytocin, primarily affecting **uterine smooth muscle** during labor and postpartum  .

– Oxytocin induces **rhythmic uterine contractions** similar to those of spontaneous labor and can cause sustained contractions at higher doses  .

## Indications and Usage

– Indicated for **induction of labor**, stimulation of labor in cases of **hypotonic uterine inertia**, and prevention/treatment of **postpartum uterine atony**  .

– Also used as an adjunct in managing **incomplete, inevitable, or missed abortion**  .

## Contraindications

– Not to be used in cases of **hypersensitivity**, **dystocia**, **uterine overdistension**, or **pre-eclamptic toxaemia**  .

– Caution is advised in patients with **cardiovascular disorders** or **placenta praevia**  .

## Drug Interactions

– Certain inhalation anesthetics may enhance hypotensive effects and reduce oxytocin’s efficacy  .

– Prostaglandins should not be used concurrently due to the risk of **uterine rupture**  .

## Warnings and Precautions

– Excessive doses can lead to **uterine overstimulation** and **foetal distress**   .

– Monitoring of **foetal heart rate** and **uterine motility** is essential during administration  .

– Risk of **water intoxication** exists with prolonged high-dose administration  .

## Side Effects

– Common side effects include **tachycardia** and **nausea**; rare effects include **cardiac arrhythmias** and **water intoxication**   .

– Anaphylactic reactions have been reported in patients with **latex allergies**  .

## Dosage and Administration

– Administered via **IV infusion**; initial rates of **1 to 4 mU/min** are recommended  .

– For **postpartum hemorrhage**, a dose of **5 IU** is given slowly IV after placenta delivery  .

– Careful monitoring is required to adjust infusion rates based on uterine activity and foetal response  .

## Pregnancy and Lactation

– No significant risk of **foetal abnormalities** expected when used as indicated  .

– Oxytocin is present in **breast milk** but is not expected to harm the newborn  .

## Storage

– Store in a **cool, dark

place** and keep out of reach of children  .