uterotonics Flashcards
Oxytocin - what does it do? what is the dose? how is it given? how long does it take to work? how long does it work for? side effects?
5-10 international units (iu) IM: causes strong uterine contractions works after 2-3 minutes of giving. Given after birth of baby, after cord has been cut. works for about 30 minutes.
5 iu IV: causes strong uterine contractions works in 1 minute.
can be given again after 20 minutes.
side effects: generally related to prolonged IV use for IOL - causes an irritable uterus.
Syntometrine (oxytocin 5iu + ergometrine maleate 0.5mg in 1ml) - what does it do? what is the dose? how is it given? how long does it take to work? how long does it last? what are the side effects?
1ml given IM: causes strong sustained smooth muscle contractions, takes about 7 minutes to work and can last for several hours. Must not be given again within 2 hours. avoid BF for 12 hours after administrtation
side effects: nausea, vomiting, dizziness, abdominal pain, headache, hypertension, vasoconstriction, potential adverse side effects in the new born
IV not recommended.