pitocin
Definition
- Noun:
- A synthetic form of oxytocin: Pitocin is a trademarked name for a synthetic version of the hormone oxytocin. It is used medically to induce or strengthen labor contractions during childbirth and to control bleeding after delivery.
- A uterotonic agent: It acts directly on the uterine muscles, stimulating them to contract.
Usage
- Pitocin is administered in a controlled clinical setting, typically intravenously, by healthcare professionals.
- It is used to initiate or augment (strengthen) labor when contractions are insufficient.
- It is also used postpartum to help the uterus contract and reduce bleeding.
Examples
- Noun:
- The doctor decided to administer Pitocin to help progress the stalled labor.
- After the delivery, she was given Pitocin to minimize postpartum hemorrhage.
Advanced Usage
- "Pitocin induction": The process of starting labor using Pitocin.
- She was scheduled for a Pitocin induction at 41 weeks.
- "Pitocin augmentation": The use of Pitocin to strengthen existing but ineffective labor contractions.
- Due to prolonged labor, they began Pitocin augmentation.
Variants and Related Words
- Oxytocin (n): The natural hormone that Pitocin mimics. It is secreted by the pituitary gland and facilitates childbirth, lactation, and social bonding.
- Syntocinon (n): Another brand name for synthetic oxytocin, used similarly to Pitocin.
Synonyms
- Synthetic oxytocin: The generic description of the drug.
- Uterotonic: A substance that causes uterine contractions.
Notes
- Pitocin is a registered trademark. In medical contexts, the generic term "oxytocin" is often used interchangeably when referring to the synthetic form for induction, though "Pitocin" remains common in clinical parlance.
- Its use requires careful monitoring due to potential side effects, such as overly strong contractions (hyperstimulation) that can affect the baby's heart rate.
Noun
-
hormone secreted by the posterior pituitary gland (trade name Pitocin); stimulates contractions of the uterus and ejection of milk
