Oxytocin

What is oxytocin?

Oxytocin is a hormonal agent used to induce or enhance uterine contractions at the time of birth in cats, dogs, rabbits, rodents, and other mammals. Oxytocin is also used in mammals to help start milk production, control uterine bleeding, and help shrink the uterus to normal size after birth. It has been used in birds and reptiles to help resolve egg binding.

Its use may be off label (extra label) depending on the condition(s) and species being treated. Many drugs are commonly prescribed for off-label use in veterinary medicine. “Off label” means the drug is being used in a way that has not been reviewed or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or Health Canada. In these instances, follow your veterinarian’s directions and cautions carefully, as they may be significantly different from those on the label.

How do I give my pet oxytocin?

• Oxytocin comes in an injectable form.
• Injections are given subcutaneously (under the skin), intramuscularly (into a muscle), or intravenously (into a vein).
• Follow your veterinarian’s directions on how and where to give the medication very carefully.
• Ensure the correct dose is drawn up each time; there is an increased risk of adverse effects at high doses.
• Your veterinarian may recommend giving another medication (e.g., calcium) along with oxytocin – follow your veterinarian’s recommendations.  
• Dispose of used sharps in a designated sharps container.
• Pregnant people should be careful to avoid accidental injection when handling this medication.
• Give this medication to your pet for the entire time prescribed by your veterinarian, even if it appears that your pet is feeling better.

This medication should take effect within 1 to 2 hours.

What if I miss giving my pet the medication?

Contact your veterinarian for directions on dosing and administration. Do not give the pet two doses at once.

Are there any potential side effects from oxytocin?

Oxytocin may cause the following side effects:

• Uterine cramping or discomfort

The following reactions are rare, but if they occur, contact your veterinarian immediately:

• An allergic reaction such as irregular breathing, rash, fever, puffiness and swelling around the face
• Failure of fetus to be delivered in expected timeframe
• Failure of milk production
• Vomiting, fever, seizures

Drug sensitivities can develop over time with repeated exposure. Your pet may have no reaction after the first few doses, but may develop a sensitivity later. It is important to watch for signs of an allergic reaction over the entire course of treatment.

Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian immediately. This medication is short-acting, meaning that effects will last less than 24 hours, though effects may last longer in pets with kidney or liver disease.

Are there any risk factors for this medication?

DO NOT USE oxytocin in pets:

• Who are allergic to any component of the medication 
• Who have a physical barrier that prevents natural birth (e.g., narrow birth canal)
• Who cannot or should not have a vaginal delivery
• Whose uterus cannot contract or whose cervix is not relaxed
• Have a fever or are vomiting

USE WITH CAUTION in pets who

• Have low blood calcium or blood sugar
• Have mammary gland disease

Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?

Certain medications should be USED WITH CAUTION when given with oxytocin, including: 

• Beta-adrenergic agonists (e.g., albuterol)
• NSAIDs (e.g., flunixin)
• Prostaglandins (e.g., misoprostol)
• Vasoconstrictors (e.g., epinephrine)

Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking before starting any new treatment.

Is any monitoring needed with this medication?

• Your veterinarian may perform diagnostics (e.g., physical exam, imaging, bloodwork to check calcium and/or glucose) before starting the medication and periodically throughout treatment.
• Your veterinarian may schedule follow-up visits for monitoring. In this case, follow your veterinarian’s directions.
• At home, monitor urine output and monitor for any abnormal changes. If these occur, discontinue the medication and contact your veterinarian.

How do I store oxytocin?

• Store at temperatures of less than 77°F (25°C).
• Do not freeze.
• Keep medication out of reach of children and pets.

What should I do in case of emergency?

If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility. Adverse effects should be reported to the FDA or Health Canada.