oxytocin /ok′sitō″sin/ , 1. a polypeptide secreted by magnocellular neurons in the hypothalamus and stored as a posterior pituitary hormone along with vasopressin. It promotes uterine contractions and milk ejection and contributes to the second stage of labor. 2. a uterotonic. ▪ INDICATIONS: It is prescribed to stimulate contractions in inducing or augmenting labor and to contract the uterus to control postpartum bleeding. ▪ CONTRAINDICATIONS: Cephalopelvic disproportion, unfavorable fetal position, or known hypersensitivity to this drug prohibits its use. ▪ ADVERSE EFFECTS: Among the more serious adverse effects are tetanic contraction, jaundice, uterine rupture, and fetal anoxia.
