Pharmacotherapeutic group: Systemic hormonal preparations; Posterior pituitary lobe hormones; Oxytocin.
ATCvet code: QH01BB02
Pharmacodynamic properties
Oxytocin is a hormone of the posterior lobe of the hypophysis. It influences the rhythmic contraction of the oxytocin sensitive smooth muscle apparatus. Of special significance is the increase of strength and frequency of the uterine contractions at the beginning of labour.
In the lactating cow the myoepithelial cells, which cover the alveoli of the mammary glands, are contracted by the influence of oxytocin and the milk is passed into the milkducts.
The veterinary medicinal product is a sterile, aqueous, protein-free injectable solution of synthetic oxytocin which corresponds chemically as well as pharmacologically with naturally occurring oxytocin.
Pharmacokinetic particulars
Following injection, oxytocin has a rapid onset of activity as physiological effects are usually detected within minutes following administration. Oxytocin is cleared very fast, as its mean half-life of distribution is about 2 minutes while its half-life of elimination is around 12 minutes.