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Oxytocin in Veterinary Medicine - Facts and Information

Oxytocin

Updated on September 10, 2024

Oxytocin is a hormone used to help stimulate contractions to induce labor, expel retained placenta or an egg-bound clutch and/or release milk to begin lactation in respective species.

Oxytocin

Summary

Used For:

Labor induction, stimulate milk let-down, and may be used to help expel retained placenta or an egg-bound clutch depending on species.

Brands: Pitocin, Syntocinon

Species: Dogs, cats, large animals, birds, reptiles

Drug type: Endocrine

Prescription required: Yes

Pregnancy and lactation: Safe for use in pregnant and lactating animals.

Side effects:

Uterine rupture, fetal injury or death of the fetus and mother. In reptiles with confirmed or suspected metabolic bone disease, contractions stimulated by oxytocin may lead to fractured bones.

General description

Oxytocin is a hormone used in multiple animal species to increase uterine contractions and milk let-down. It may also be used to stimulate the passage of eggs in birds and reptiles experiencing egg binding but should be used with caution under the direction of a veterinarian. While many medications are often administered for ‘off-label’ or 'extra-label' use in veterinary medicine, it is important to know that off- or extra- label use of a medication can only be performed by a veterinarian when there are no other more appropriate medications for a particular pet's circumstances. Your veterinarian must also know all vitamins, supplements, medications etc. your pet is taking to help avoid complications. You must also be sure to follow all instructions provided by your vet carefully and consult your veterinarian with any questions or concerns if they arise.

Uses

Labor induction, stimulate milk let-down

How it works

Oxytocin works by stimulating contractions in the muscles of the uterus by binding of oxytocin receptors. This also causes milk let-down.

Dosage

*Information provided below outlines what a typical dose might look like but will vary based on species and intended use. Always consult your veterinarian on the appropriate dose for your specific animal when using any vitamin, supplement, off-label or prescription products. Some vets may prescribe outside of these ranges based on specific needs of the patient. **Dogs**: 5-20 units per dog intramuscularly or subcutaneously every 30 minutes. **Cats**: 2.5-3 units per cat intramuscularly or intravenously given up to 3 times every 30-60 minutes.

Forms

10 units per milliliter and 20 units per milliliter injection available, also available in a 40 units per milliliter nasal solution.

Storage information & handling

See label for full instructions. Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight.

What results can I expect?

Outcome will vary based on intended use. For typical use, uterine contractions should begin within 10-15 minutes after giving oxytocin.

Missed Dosage

This medication should only be administered by your veterinarian or under the specific guidance of your veterinarian.

Overdose / acute toxicity

Overdose is uncommon, but it can cause severe uterine contractions. In reptiles or avian species this may result in bone fractures. Your veterinarian may recommend alternative options before oxytocin is administered to avoid these risks in certain severe cases or species of concern.

Side effects

May include: * Uterine rupture * Fetal injury * Death of the fetus and mother *Bone fractures are possible but more common in avian or reptile species particularly if metabolic bone disease is present.

Contraindications

*Do NOT use in animals with dystocia (difficult birth) due to malposition of the fetus. *Do NOT use in animals with a small pelvis in the mother, large fetal size or when a cesarean section is otherwise warranted. *Do NOT use in reptiles with severe metabolic bone disease.

Drug interactions

Drug interactions must be carefully considered by your veterinarian before administering oxytocin. Your veterinarian must be made aware of all medications, supplements, vitamins etc. that have been administered to your pet as well as all health conditions your pet has experienced in the past. This information is essential to your veterinarian's success in treating your pet appropriately.

Laboratory considerations

There are no known laboratory considerations when using oxytocin.

Precaution

Do not use without explicit guidance from your veterinarian. Your pet and fetal health if applicable must be monitored the entire time oxytocin is being used.

Sources

*Saunders Handbook of Veterinary Drugs*

*VIN Veterinary Drug Handbook*

Manufacturer information

JHP Pharmaceuticals - Pitocin

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Disclaimer

The information contained on this page is for educational purposes only. This medication should only be given under the advice of a veterinarian who has examined your pet under the laws applicable to your state of residence.