Oxytocin

A hormone produced by the pituitary gland. Oxytocin causes uterine contractions during labour and stimulates milk-flow in breast-feeding women. Synthetic oxytocin is used for induction of labour. It is given by intravenous infusion to produce uterine contractions. It is also often given with ergotamine as a single dose after delivery to prompt placental separation and expulsion, to reduce blood flow, or to empty the uterus after an incomplete miscarriage or a fetal death. A possible adverse effect of synthetic oxytocin is abnormally strong, painful contractions. Rare side effects include nausea, vomiting, palpitations, and allergic reactions.