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All price changes →Indications & Uses
Ocin is used for the induction of labor and for stimulating uterine contractions. After delivery, it is used to prevent or treat secondary haemorrhage and adherent placenta. It can also be used to stimulate lactation, but only when a registered Gynaecologist or Physician advises it. In incomplete abortion, Ocin is given to get more rapid expulsion, which helps prevent secondary haemorrhage.
Pharmacology
Uterine movement depends on actomyosin, a contractile protein that forms under the action of myosin light-chain kinase, an enzyme that needs calcium (Ca2+) to work. Oxytocin brings about contractions by raising the level of intracellular Ca2+, and this in turn switches on myosin light-chain kinase. Oxytocin binds to specific receptors in the muscle lining of the uterus. The number of these receptors rises sharply during pregnancy and peaks in early labor at term.
Dosage Reference
Reference Information Only
Dosages shown are general references from official sources. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist for personalized dosing.
Adults:
Induction of labor and stimulation of uterine contractions: Oxytocin should be given by intravenous infusion under adequate control, with 1 to 5 IU added to 500 ml of infusion fluid. Administration is started at 1 mU per minute (1 mU equals 0.001 IU). Depending on the response, the dose can be doubled every 30 to 45 minutes until the uterine threshold is reached, generally below 10 mU per minute; a further small increase beyond this point usually provides optimal activity.
Note: Intramuscular administration of Oxytocin may cause an irregular response and symptoms of overdosage. If intramuscular use cannot be avoided, the dose should not exceed 0.5 to 1 IU per injection.
For the post delivery period, to prevent or treat secondary haemorrhage and adherent placenta: an intramuscular injection of 2 to 5 IU, or an intravenous infusion at an adequate dose.
To stimulate lactation, and only on the advice of a registered gynaecologist or physician: an intramuscular injection of 2 IU.
For treatment of incomplete abortion, to bring about more rapid expulsion and prevent secondary haemorrhage: an intramuscular injection of 2 to 5 IU every 30 to 60 minutes, or an intravenous infusion at an adequate dose.
Side Effects
Hypersensitivity to Oxytocin may cause the uterus to become overly tight or tense, go into spasm, contract abnormally hard, or, rarely, rupture. Doctors also watch for increased blood loss and a drop in blood clotting factor (fibrinogen) while the drug is being given. Severe water intoxication, with convulsions and coma, has been reported in rare cases. Ocin may occasionally cause nausea, vomiting, bleeding, irregular heartbeats, or an allergic (anaphylactic) reaction. Very rarely, signs of water intoxication may appear. Use of Ocin has also been linked to a higher rate of newborn jaundice (icterus neonatorum).
Cautions & Contraindications
Warnings & Precautions
Since uterine sensitivity to Oxytocin varies considerably from patient to patient, it should be used cautiously. The smallest dose that produces an effective response should be identified for each patient and used to initiate labor. Oxytocin should be given only under adequate medical supervision, with fetal heart rate and maternal blood pressure monitored throughout. Caution is also advised where scarring of the uterus or cervix is present.
Contraindications
Cephalo-pelvic disproportion. An abnormal position of the baby or of the foetal skull. Overdistension of the lower segment of the uterus. Severe toxaemia. Hypertonic uterine dysfunction. Foetal distress where delivery is not imminent, since uterine contractions may worsen the lack of oxygen. Cord presentation and cord prolapse. Total placenta praevia. Vasa praevia.
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
Pregnancy category C. It is not known whether oxytocin passes into breast milk.
⚠️ Talk to your doctor before taking any medicine during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
Overdose
Too much Oxytocin can cause violent contractions of the uterus. These may slow the baby's heart rate (fetal bradycardia) and lead to arrhythmias, extensive laceration of the soft tissues, uterine rupture, and perhaps the death of the baby or the mother. Treatment is to stop the infusion immediately and induce tocolysis.
⚠️ In an emergency call 999 or go to the nearest hospital emergency department.
Storage
Keep Oxytocin between 2 and 8°C, in a dark place that stays free from frost. Keep it out of the reach of children.
Drug Interactions
Common questions about Oxyton DS 10 IU/ml
What is Oxyton DS 10 IU/ml IM/IV Injection?
Oxyton DS 10 IU/ml IM/IV Injection is a medicine that contains Oxytocin. It is made by Renata PLC. It belongs to the Drugs acting on the Uterus group of medicines.
What is Oxyton DS used for?
Ocin is used for the induction of labor and for stimulating uterine contractions. After delivery, it is used to prevent or treat secondary haemorrhage and adherent placenta.
What are the side effects of Oxyton DS?
Hypersensitivity to Oxytocin may cause the uterus to become overly tight or tense, go into spasm, contract abnormally hard, or, rarely, rupture. Doctors also watch for increased blood loss and a drop in blood clotting factor (fibrinogen) while the drug is being given.
Can I take Oxyton DS during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?
Pregnancy category C. It is not known whether oxytocin passes into breast milk. Talk to your doctor before taking any medicine during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
What happens if I take too much Oxyton DS?
Too much Oxytocin can cause violent contractions of the uterus. These may slow the baby's heart rate (fetal bradycardia) and lead to arrhythmias, extensive laceration of the soft tissues, uterine rupture, and perhaps the death of the baby or the mother. In an emergency call 999 or go to the nearest hospital emergency department.
How should I store Oxyton DS?
Keep Oxytocin between 2 and 8°C, in a dark place that stays free from frost. Keep it out of the reach of children.
Can I take other medicines with Oxyton DS?
Some medicines can interact with Oxytocin, for example: Calcium Lactate Gluconate + Calcium Carbonate + Vitamin C, Ergometrine Maleate, Ephedrine Hydrochloride, Phenylephrine Hydrochloride, Dinoprostone. Tell your doctor or pharmacist about every medicine you take.
Do I need a prescription for Oxyton DS?
Oxyton DS is a prescription (Rx) medicine. Take it as your doctor advises.