OXYTOCIN (Pitocin®)

Question 1

Generic/Trade Name

OXYTOCIN

Answer 1

Pitocin®

Question 2

Generic/Trade Name

Pitocin®

Answer 2

OXYTOCIN

Question 3

OXYTOCIN (Pitocin®)

Drug Classification:

Answer 3

Hormone / Uterine Stimulant

Question 4

OXYTOCIN (Pitocin®)

Mechanism of Action:

Answer 4

Promotes contraction of uterine muscle and lactation

Question 5

OXYTOCIN (Pitocin®)

Pharmacokinetics

Answer 5

• Onset of Action = Immediate IV, 3-7 minutes IM
• Peak Effects = Varies
• Duration of Effect = 1hour IV, 2-3 hours IM
• Half-Life = 3-5 minutes

Question 6

OXYTOCIN (Pitocin®)

Indications & Contraindications

Answer 6

Indications/Field Use:
• Post-partum hemorrhage

Contraindications:
Baby and placenta not delivered; additional fetus present

Question 7

OXYTOCIN (Pitocin®)

Side Effects/Adverse Reactions:

Answer 7

Hypotension, tachycardia, dysrhythmias

seizures, coma, N+V

If given prior to fetal delivery:

• fetal hypoxia
• fetal asphyxia
• fetal intracranialbleeding

Question 8

OXYTOCIN (Pitocin®)

Adult & Pedi Dose:

Answer 8

(ADULT): 3-30 units IM

(ADULT): 10-20 units in 500ml or 1000ml D5W, NS, or LR – slow IV, IO infusion

Question 9

OXYTOCIN (Pitocin®)

Precautions:

Answer 9

Can cause over-stimulation of uterus and possible uterine rupture

Monitor vitals and uterine tone

Question 10

OXYTOCIN (Pitocin®)

Drug-Drug Interactions:

Answer 10

HTN when given with vasoconstrictors such as NE