Generic name:oxytocin [ OX-i-TOE-sin ]
Drug class:Uterotonic agents
What is Pitocin?
Pitocin is a hormone that is used to induce labor or strengthen uterine contractions, or to control bleeding after childbirth.
Pitocin is also used to stimulate uterine contractions in a woman with an incomplete or threatened miscarriage.
Pitocin may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
Before you receive Pitocin, tell your doctor about all your medical conditions or allergies, and all the medicines you are using.
Before taking this medicine
You should not be treated with Pitocin if you are allergic to it.
Tell your doctor if you have ever had:
a severe infection in your uterus;
a difficult labor because you have a small pelvis;
genital herpes;
cervical cancer;
surgery on your cervix or uterus (including a prior C-section);
heart problems.
Also tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
How is Pitocin given?
Pitocin is injected into a muscle, or given as an infusion into a vein. A healthcare provider will give you this injection.
Your contractions and other vital signs will be watched closely while you are receiving Pitocin. This will help your doctor determine how long to treat you with Pitocin.
During labor, your baby's heart rate will also be watched with a fetal heart monitor to evaluate any effects of
