Oxytocin Injection
What is this medication?
OXYTOCIN (ox i TOE sin) induces and strengthens uterine contractions. It may also be used to prevent and treat excessive bleeding from the uterus at the end of a pregnancy.
This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.
How should I use this medication?
This medication is for infusion into a vein. It is given in a hospital or clinic setting.
Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. Special care may be needed.
Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?
Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:
- Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Heart rhythm changes—fast or irregular heartbeat, dizziness, feeling faint or lightheaded, chest pain, trouble breathing
- Heavy vaginal bleeding
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):
This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Where should I keep my medication?
This medication is given in a hospital or clinic and will not be stored at home.
NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.
What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
- Any condition where vaginal childbirth is unwanted, such as cervical cancer, herpes infection, oversized fetal head
- Dangerous position of the fetus, placenta, or umbilical cord
- History of uterine surgery, such as cesarean section
- Pregnant many times before
- Uterus overstimulated
- An unusual or allergic reaction to oxytocin, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
- Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
- Breast-feeding
What may interact with this medication?
Do not take this medication with any of the following:
- Dinoprostone, prostaglandin E2
This medication may also interact with the following:
- Medications for blood pressure
- Medications used for sleep during surgery
- Other medications to contract the uterus
This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.
What should I watch for while using this medication?
Your condition will be monitored carefully while you are receiving this medication.
