Target Species
Cattle, horses, pigs, sheep, goats, cats and dogs
Indications for use
Injections with this product will initiate strong, regular and purposeful contractions of the uterine muscle especially in the later stages of pregnancy and post-partum. It also evokes the 'let-down' of milk although it has no action on the smooth muscles of the gut or urinary bladder, nor is it effective in the treatment of diabetes insipidus. The absence of vasopressor and antidiuretic effects make it particularly suitable for obstetric use (stimulation of parturition, promotion of uterine involution and control of post-partum haemorrhage) and the treatment of agalactia.
The product is indicated for:
- stimulation of uterine contraction to facilitate parturition in the presence of a fully dilated cervix
- to promote involution of the post-parturient uterus and thus aid the passage of
retained placenta
- to aid in control of post-partum haemorrhage
- promotion of milk 'let-down' in cases of agalactia and to facilitate ‘stripping
out’ of infected quarters in the treatment of mastitis in cows.
Contraindications
1. When the product is used as an aid to parturition, cervical dilation must be confirmed prior to administration to prevent the risk of foetal death and possible uterine rupture.
2. The product is contraindicated in any form of obstructive dystocia.
3. Excessive doses of the product may delay parturition by producing incoordinated uterine contractions which interfere with the progress of the foetus especially in multiple pregnancies.
4. The effects of daily dosages of 100 iu or more (to facilitate ‘stripping out’ of infected quarters in the treatment of mastitis in cows) on the oestrous cycle have not been fully investigated and the cycle length may be altered.
5. Adrenaline at physiological levels markedly reduces the effect of oxytocin on the uterus or mammary gland. For this reason, the animal should not be frightened when complete oxytocin effect is desired to cause either milk 'letdown' or uterine contractions.
Special warnings for each target species
None
Special precautions for use
Use aseptic precautions.
Operator warnings
Pregnant or lactating women should avoid handling the product as it could cause smooth muscle (e.g. uterine) contraction.
When administering the product, care should be taken to avoid accidental self-injection.
In case of accidental self-injection, seek medical advice immediately and show the package leaflet or the label to the physician.
Adverse Reactions
None known
Use during pregnancy or lactation
Used to promote parturition and milk let-down. Not to be used in late pregnancy unless the intention is to promote parturition.
Interactions
Stimulation of beta-adrenergic receptors may reduce the effect of oxytocin on the uterus or mammary gland.
Amounts to be administered and administration route
The product should normally be given by deep intramuscular injection.
Species | Dosage | mls |
Queen | 2-5 iu | 0.2-0.5 ml |
Bitch | 2-10 iu | 0.2-1.0 ml |
Ewe,goat,sow | 2-10 iu | 0.2-1.0 ml |
Mare | 10-40 iu | 1.0-4.0 ml |
Cow Indications other than mastitis as listed in section 'Indications'. For mastitis treatment see below | 10-40 iu | 1.0-4.0 ml |
Adjunct to mastitis treatment in cows:
A single dose of up to 80 iu (8 ml) prior to stripping out before first mastitis treatment followed by repeated doses of 20 iu (2 ml) prior to each stripping out 2 or 3 times daily while mastitis treatment continues.
Where the intravenous route is used, these doses should be reduced to one-quarter of the intramuscular dose and the injection given slowly at a dilution of 1 in 10 Water for Injections Ph.Eur. Where speed of onset is not a priority, the product may be given by the subcutaneous route.
A low initial dosage is recommended by any route as repeat administration is permissible.
Large doses may be employed in post-parturient animals.
Overdose
Excessive doses might cause uncoordinated uterine contractions (also refer to contraindications).
Withdrawal periods
Cattle, sheep, pigs, horses and goats: Meat – Zero days
Cattle, sheep and goats: Milk – Zero hours