Oxytocin Injection: Strictly Medical Use — Never for Oral Consumption

Oxytocin injection is for intravenous or intramuscular use only under medical supervision. Oral ingestion is dangerous and ineffective.

Pharmacology

• Peptide hormone — destroyed by gastric acid and digestive enzymes if swallowed.
• IV/IM: rapid onset (minutes); half-life 3–10 minutes.
• Actions: uterine contraction (labor induction/augmentation, postpartum hemorrhage), milk ejection.

Serious Risks of Misuse

• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
• Hypertension, tachycardia, arrhythmias
• Water intoxication (hyponatremia) — oxytocin has antidiuretic effect at high doses
• Uterine hyperstimulation → fetal distress, uterine rupture
• Seizures, coma, death from electrolyte shifts or cardiovascular collapse

Clinical Use Only

• Induction/augmentation of labor (protocol-driven).
• Postpartum hemorrhage prophylaxis/treatment.
• Dosage titrated to contraction pattern; continuous fetal monitoring required.

Never self-administer. Oxytocin is a high-alert medication. If you have questions about prescribed oxytocin, contact your provider.