Here is a detailed, brand-free drug information leaflet-style overview of Oxytocin Injection 5 IU/mL:
💉 Oxytocin Injection 5 IU/mL
✅ DESCRIPTION
Oxytocin is a synthetic hormone that mimics the natural oxytocin produced by the posterior pituitary gland. It is a uterotonic agent widely used in obstetrics to stimulate uterine contractions, induce labor, and manage postpartum hemorrhage (PPH).
🧪 FORMULATION
- Active Ingredient: Oxytocin – 5 International Units (IU) per 1 mL
- Dosage Form: Injectable solution
- Route of Administration: Intramuscular (IM) or Intravenous (IV)
- Packaging: Glass ampoule or vial; usually 1 mL per unit
🌿 NATURE
- Type: Synthetic polypeptide hormone
- Pharmacological Class: Uterotonic / Hormone
- Mechanism of Action:
Binds to oxytocin receptors in the uterine muscle → triggers rhythmic contractions → helps in labor progression and control of bleeding
💊 USES
🔹 Obstetric Uses:
- Induction of labor (IV infusion under supervision)
- Augmentation of labor in case of weak contractions
- Active management of third stage of labor to prevent PPH
- Treatment of postpartum hemorrhage
- Post-abortion uterine evacuation
🔹 Other:
- Stimulate milk let-down reflex (rare clinical use)
🌟 ADVANTAGES
- Rapid onset of action
- Highly effective in managing uterine atony and bleeding
- Short half-life allows for easy titration and control
- Cost-effective and widely available
⚠️ PRECAUTIONS
🚫 Contraindications:
- Cephalopelvic disproportion (CPD)
- Malpresentation (e.g., breech)
- Previous uterine surgery (risk of rupture)
- Fetal distress without immediate delivery option
- Hypertonic uterine contractions or uterine scarring
💢 Side Effects:
- Uterine hyperstimulation → rupture
- Water intoxication (with prolonged high doses)
- Hypotension (especially with rapid IV bolus)
- Fetal distress due to reduced oxygen
- Nausea, vomiting
📅 TYPICAL DOSAGE GUIDELINES
| Indication | Dose & Route |
|---|---|
| Induction of labor (IV infusion) | Start with 1–2 mIU/min; increase every 30 min |
| Active management of 3rd stage | 5–10 IU IM after delivery of anterior shoulder |
| PPH treatment | 10 IU IM or slow IV bolus |
| Post-abortion | 5–10 IU IM or IV |
💡 Always monitor uterine tone, fetal heart rate (if applicable), and vitals during administration.
🧊 STORAGE
- Store at 2°C to 8°C (refrigerated)
- Do not freeze
- Protect from light
- Discard ampoule after opening (single-use)
- Transport with cold chain maintenance (especially for bulk stock)