Week 4: Reproductive Pharmacology: Drugs to induce labor

Question 1

Oxytocin MOA

Answer 1

? causes contraction of the uterus?

Question 2

Oxytocin clinical uses

Answer 2

causes contraction of the uterus

Question 3

Oxytocin side-effects

Answer 3

• Uterine hyperstimulation
• fetal distress
• water intoxication (a rare effect secondary to its antidiuretic effect at large dosages)
• cardiovascular effects (premature ventricular contractions, hypotension and mild and transient hypertension)

Question 4

Oxytocin contraindications

Answer 4

At high doses Oxytocin has an antidiuretic effects

(caution; watch for volume overload)

Question 5

Dinoprostone MOA

Answer 5

A PGE₂ analog

Question 6

Dinoprostone clinical uses

Answer 6

causes contraction of the uterus

Question 7

Dinoprostone side effects

Answer 7

• Uterine hyperstimulation (contractions lasting for 2 minutes or more or a contraction frequency of five or more in 10 minutes)
• fetal hear rate abnormalities

Question 8

Dinoprostone contraindications

Answer 8

Contraindicated in patients with prior Cesarean section due to increased risk for incisional uterine rupture

Question 9

Misoprostol MOA

Answer 9

PGE analog

Question 10

Misoprostol clinical uses

Answer 10

Causes cervical ripening (softening) and causes uterine contractions

Question 12

Misoprostol side effects

Answer 12

Uterine hyperstimulation (contractions lasting 2 minutes or more or a contraction frequency of five or more in 10 minutes)

fetal heart rate abnormalities

Question 13

Misoprostol contraindications

Answer 13

contraindicated in patients with prior Cesarean sections due to increased riisk for incisional uterine rupture

Question 14

Misoprostol notes

Answer 14

• Also used for the treatment of postpartum hemorrhage and as an adjunct to mifepristone in medical abortion
• Can be stored at room temperature
• relatively inexpensive