Oxytocin

Emergency Drugs

Emergency Drugs · Uterotonic

Oxytocin

Dose

PPH: 5 IU slow IV then 40 IU in 500 mL over 4 h. Active third stage: 10 IU IM.

Use

Prevention and treatment of postpartum haemorrhage; labour augmentation.

Monitoring

Uterine tone, blood loss, BP, fluid balance (hyponatraemia with high volumes).

Side effects

  • Hypotension with rapid bolus
  • Water intoxication/hyponatraemia
  • Nausea
  • Tachycardia

Related in WardRound

Always confirm dose against your local formulary / BNF before prescribing.

WardRound

WardRound

Clinical Decisions in Seconds