Last reviewed 2026-04-22 · How we verify

continuation of oxytocin administration

Oxytocin is a peptide hormone that binds to oxytocin receptors to stimulate uterine contractions and promote milk letdown during labor and postpartum hemorrhage management.

Oxytocin is a peptide hormone that binds to oxytocin receptors to stimulate uterine contractions and promote milk letdown during labor and postpartum hemorrhage management. Used for Induction or augmentation of labor, Prevention and treatment of postpartum hemorrhage, Management of incomplete or inevitable abortion.

At a glance

Mechanism of action

Oxytocin acts as an agonist at oxytocin receptors located on uterine smooth muscle and mammary gland myoepithelial cells. Upon receptor binding, it triggers calcium influx and increases intracellular calcium concentration, leading to sustained uterine contractions during labor and the postpartum period. It also facilitates milk ejection by contracting mammary tissue during lactation.

Approved indications

• Induction or augmentation of labor
• Prevention and treatment of postpartum hemorrhage
• Management of incomplete or inevitable abortion

Common side effects

• Uterine hyperstimulation
• Nausea and vomiting
• Headache
• Hypertension
• Water intoxication (with prolonged high-dose infusion)
• Fetal bradycardia

Key clinical trials

• Reducing Neonatal Morbidity by Discontinuing Oxytocin During the Active Phase of 1st Stage of Labor (PHASE4)
• The Influence of Oxytocin on Intrapartum Fetal Well-being and Delivery Outcomes in Patients Receiving Epidural Analgesia (NA)

Primary sources

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