uterotonics

Question 1

Oxytocin - what does it do? what is the dose? how is it given? how long does it take to work? how long does it work for? side effects?

Answer 1

5-10 international units (iu) IM: causes strong uterine contractions works after 2-3 minutes of giving. Given after birth of baby, after cord has been cut. works for about 30 minutes.
5 iu IV: causes strong uterine contractions works in 1 minute.
can be given again after 20 minutes.
side effects: generally related to prolonged IV use for IOL - causes an irritable uterus.

Question 2

Syntometrine (oxytocin 5iu + ergometrine maleate 0.5mg in 1ml) - what does it do? what is the dose? how is it given? how long does it take to work? how long does it last? what are the side effects?

Answer 2

1ml given IM: causes strong sustained smooth muscle contractions, takes about 7 minutes to work and can last for several hours. Must not be given again within 2 hours. avoid BF for 12 hours after administrtation
side effects: nausea, vomiting, dizziness, abdominal pain, headache, hypertension, vasoconstriction, potential adverse side effects in the new born
IV not recommended.