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.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Pitocin

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

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 if I miss a dose?

This does not apply.

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.

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):

• Nausea
• Vomiting

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.