Pitocin (Oxytocin Injection) Patient Information: How Should I Take the Drug at RxList

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May 27, 2012

Pitocin

Eclampsia »

What Is Preeclampsia?

Also referred to as toxemia, preeclampsia is a condition that pregnant women can get. It is marked by high blood pressure accompanied with a high level of protein in the urine. Women with preeclampsia will often also have swelling in the feet, legs and hands. Preeclampsia, when present, usually appears during the second half of pregnancy, generally in the latter part of the second or in the third trimesters, although it can occur earlier.

What Is Eclampsia?

Eclampsia is the final and most severe phase of preeclampsia and occurs when preeclampsia is left untreated. In addition to the previously mentioned symptoms, women with eclampsia often have seizures. Eclampsia can cause coma and even death of the mother and baby and can occur before, during or after childbirth.

What Causes Preeclampsia and Eclampsia?

The exact causes of preeclampsia and eclampsia ar...

Read the Eclampsia article »

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Pitocin

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Pitocin Patient Information including How Should I Take

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using oxytocin (Pitocin)?

Do not take oxytocin without first talking to your doctor if you

have or have had cervical cancer;
have an allergy to oxytocin, other medications, dyes, foods, or preservatives;
have eclampsia;
have herpes;
have had more than 7 pregnancies;
are experiencing premature labor;
have had a caesarean section (C-section);
have had any surgery on the cervix or uterus;
have a prolapsed uterus; or
have a breech, placenta previa or any other issues with the fetus or umbilical cord.

You may not be able to use oxytocin, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.

Tell your doctor about all prescription or over-the-counter medicines including vitamins, minerals, and herbal products that your are taking.

Tell your doctor if you drink alcohol or caffeine drinks regularly, if you are a smoker or if you use illegal drugs. These factors can affect the way oxytocin works in your body.

There are no known indications for the use of oxytocin in the first or second trimester of pregnancy other than in relation to spontaneous or induced abortion. Based on the wide experience with this drug and its properties, it would not be expected to present a risk of harm to the baby when used as indicated under the supervision of a trained healthcare professional. Ask your doctor to answer any questions you have about the use of oxytocin and your pregnancy.

Do not use oxytocin without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I use oxytocin (Pitocin)?

Oxytocin should be administered as an injection into a muscle or intravenously by a healthcare provider. It should be administered in a clinical setting where a healthcare provider can monitor uterine contractions and other vital signs (blood pressure, heart rates) and where an emergency situation can be handled properly.

Your healthcare provider will store oxytocin as directed by the manufacturer.

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