Oxytocin
Pitocin is a brand-name formulation of synthetic oxytocin, a hormone naturally produced by the pituitary gland. It is primarily used in obstetrics to induce or augment labor and to control postpartum bleeding. This medication works by stimulating uterine contractions and is administered under careful medical supervision in hospital settings.
Pitocin is a synthetic hormone used to induce labor and prevent excessive bleeding after childbirth.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 227199
- Generic
- Pitocin
- Class
- brand-name
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Pitocin is used to induce labor when there is a medical need (such as overdue pregnancy or health concerns for mother or baby), to strengthen labor contractions during childbirth, and to control postpartum hemorrhage (excessive bleeding after delivery).
As a synthetic form of oxytocin, Pitocin binds to receptors in the uterine muscle, stimulating rhythmic contractions. It mimics the natural hormone that plays a key role in initiating and regulating labor and postpartum responses.
Pitocin must be administered in a controlled hospital setting with continuous fetal and maternal monitoring. It is contraindicated in situations where vaginal delivery is not advisable. Side effects may include uterine hyperstimulation, fetal distress, nausea, and water retention.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 9, 2026. · Read our editorial policy