Oxytocin
Oxytocin
Oxytocin is a hormone used to help stimulate labor. It can also be used to release milk to begin lactation.
Summary
- Used for: Labor induction, stimulate milk let-down
- Brands: Pitocin, Syntocinon
- Species: Dogs, cats, large animals, birds, reptiles
- Drug type: Endocrine
- Prescription required: Yes
- Pregnancy and lactation: Safe for use in pregnant and lactating animals.
- Side effects: Uterine rupture, fetal injury or death of the fetus and mother.
- FDA approved: Yes
Written by
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General description
Oxytocin is a hormone approved for use in multiple animal species to increase uterine contractions and milk let-down. It is also used for the treatment of egg binding in birds and reptiles. It should only be used under the direction of a veterinarian.
Uses
Labor induction, stimulate milk let-down
How it works
Oxytocin works by stimulating contractions in the muscles of the uterus by binding of oxytocin receptors. This also causes milk let-down.
Dosage
Dogs: 5-20 units per dog intramuscularly or subcutaneously every 30 minutes.
Cats: 2.5-3 units per cat intramuscularly or intravenously given up to 3 times every 30-60 minutes.
Forms
10 units per milliliter and 20 units per milliliter injection available, also available in a 40 units per milliliter nasal solution.
Storage information & handling
Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight.
What results can I expect?
Uterine contractions should begin within 10-15 minutes after giving oxytocin.
Missed dosage
Continue next dose at the scheduled time if a dose is missed.
Overdose / acute toxicity:
Overdose is uncommon, but it can cause severe uterine contractions.
Side effects
May include:
- Uterine rupture
- Fetal injury
- Death of the fetus and mother
Contraindications
Do NOT use in animals with dystocia (difficult birth) due to malposition of the fetus.
Do NOT use in animals with a small pelvis in the mother, large fetal size or when a cesarean section is otherwise warranted.
Drug interactions
Oxytocin should not used in combination with beta adrenergic agonists that relax smooth muscles.
Precaution
Do not use unless induction of labor or milk let-down is the goal.
Labor and fetal health should be monitored the entire time oxytocin is being used.
Laboratory considerations
There are no known laboratory considerations when using oxytocin.
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Most common questions about Oxytocin
Filed under:
Sources
Saunders Handbook of Veterinary Drugs
Manufacturer information
JHP Pharmaceuticals - Pitocin
Disclaimer
The information contained on this page is for educational purposes only. Oxytocin is a prescription medication that should only be given under the advice of a veterinarian who has examined your pet under the laws applicable to your state of residence.
