Catalog
Posterior pituitary nonapeptide

Oxytocin

aka Pitocin

Foundational obstetric peptide — induction, augmentation, postpartum hemorrhage.

FDA-approvedGrade A — Clinically established
Target
OXTR (Gq GPCR)

Mechanism of action

Binds OXTR on uterine myometrium → IP3/Ca²⁺ → contraction. Also CNS effects on social cognition (research, not therapeutic).

Pharmacokinetics

IV titration intrapartum; IM postpartum. Very short t½ (~3–5 min).

Clinical context

Labor induction/augmentation, postpartum hemorrhage prevention.

Safety

Contraindications
  • Cephalopelvic disproportion
  • Fetal distress
  • Prior classical uterine incision
Adverse effects
  • Tachysystole, fetal distress
  • Hyponatremia (water intoxication, antidiuretic effect at high dose)

Covered in modules

Module 10
Oxytocin, Vasopressin & Social/Endocrine Peptides
What intranasal oxytocin can and can't do — and the established uses.

Related compounds

Synthetic vasopressin V2-selective analog
Desmopressin (DDAVP)

Generate prescriber-grade deep dive

Pull in expanded mechanism, PK/PD, dosing strategies for special populations, drug interactions, monitoring cadence, head-to-head differentials, prescriber pearls, and patient FAQs for Oxytocin.

Educational reference. Not medical advice. Always verify against current FDA labeling and local regulatory guidance before prescribing or counseling.