Oxytocin Medical Uses and Adverse Effects

What is the terminal half-life of the medication described in the text?

Which enzymes are involved in the metabolism of the described medication?

What drug interaction can decrease the metabolism of the described medication?

In which condition should the described medication not be co-administered with nitrates?

Which adverse effect can result from overdosage of oxytocin?

What is a potential consequence of high doses of oxytocin besides water intoxication?

How do ergometrine and methylergometrine differ in pharmacological potency?

What is the main pharmacological effect of ergometrine and methylergometrine on the uterus?

What is the effect of oxytocin on uterine muscle compared to intestinal muscle and coronary arteries?

Which type of adrenergic receptors are found in uterine receptor sites?

Which hormone is required for the promotion of mammary development, lactation, and galactopoiesis?

What is the mechanism of action of oxytocin on the myometrium?

Medication Half-Life and Metabolism

Terminal half-life of the medication varies based on individual factors such as age and organ function.
Enzymes involved in metabolism typically include CYP450 family enzymes, notably CYP3A4 and CYP2C9.

Drug Interactions

Specific drug interactions with certain medications, such as some antifungals and HIV protease inhibitors, can decrease the metabolism of the medication in question.

Contraindications with Nitrates

Condition where co-administration of the medication with nitrates is contraindicated includes severe hypotension or risk of cardiovascular collapse.

Adverse Effects of Oxytocin

Overdosage of oxytocin can lead to uterine hypertonicity, resulting in potential uterine rupture or fetal distress.

Consequences of High Doses of Oxytocin

High doses of oxytocin can lead to water intoxication, but it may also result in hyponatremia or severe fluid overload.

Potency of Ergometrine and Methylergometrine

Ergometrine is generally more potent in stimulating uterine contractions compared to methylergometrine, though both are effective.

Pharmacological Effects on the Uterus

Main pharmacological effect of both ergometrine and methylergometrine is the induction of sustained uterine contractions, useful in managing postpartum hemorrhage.

Oxytocin Effects on Muscle Types

Oxytocin produces stronger contractions in uterine muscle relative to its effects on intestinal muscle and coronary arteries, illustrating its selectivity.

Adrenergic Receptors in the Uterus

Uterine receptor sites primarily express alpha-adrenergic receptors, which mediate contraction responses.

Hormonal Needs for Mammary Development

Prolactin is essential for promoting mammary development, supporting lactation and galactopoiesis (the maintenance of lactation).

Mechanism of Action of Oxytocin

Oxytocin acts on the myometrium by binding to oxytocin receptors, which enhances calcium influx, leading to increased uterine contractility.

Learn about the medical uses of oxytocin such as preventing postpartum uterine atony, expelling the placenta, and stimulating milk let-down while understanding its adverse effects like uterine hyperstimulation and potential fetal hypoxia. Be cautious of the dosage and side effects associated with oxytocin administration.