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Pitocin (ox-i-TOE-sin) is a hormone used to help start or continue labor and to control bleeding after delivery. It is also sometimes used to help milk secretion in breast-feeding. Pitocin may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor. In general, Pitocin should not be used to start labor unless there are specific medical reasons. Be sure you have discussed this with your doctor before receiving this medicine. Pitocin is available only with your doctor's prescription, in the following dosage forms: Nasal Solution (U.S. and Canada) Parenteral Injection (U.S. and Canada)
Your doctor has ordered oxytocin, a hormone, to stimulate contractions of the uterus and smooth muscle tissue. The drug will be either injected into a large muscle (such as your buttock or hip) or added to an intravenous fluid that will drip through a needle or catheter in your vein. Oxytocin is a hormone produced by the hypothalamus and stored in the pituitary gland. It is used to help start or strengthen labor and to reduce bleeding after delivery. Pitocin is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information. Your health care provider (doctor, nurse, or pharmacist) may measure the effectiveness and side effects of your treatment using laboratory tests and physical examinations. It is important to keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. The length of treatment depends on how your symptoms respond to the medication. Brand names: - Oxytocin - Pitocin - Syntocinon |