description:

Syntocinon (Oxytocin)  is a synthetic version of the natural hormone oxytocin. It is used in obstetrics to induce or augment labour, to control postpartum haemorrhage (excessive bleeding after childbirth), and to promote uterine contraction after delivery or during caesarean section. It works by stimulating the smooth muscle of the uterus, causing rhythmic contractions.

Prescription: Prescription-only (Rx). Must be administered by a qualified healthcare professional (doctor, midwife, or obstetrician) in a hospital or clinical setting with continuous monitoring of maternal and fetal condition.

Therapeutic Category:

Uterotonic agent / Oxytocic (hormone that stimulates uterine contraction.

Active Ingredients/Composition: Active ingredient: Synthetic oxytocin 5 IU or 10 IU per ml (commonly supplied as 5 IU/ml or 10 IU/ml solution for injection). Excipients: Chlorobutanol (preservative), sodium acetate, sodium chloride, acetic acid, water for injection (sterile solution).

Vitamins: None.

Minerals: None.

Variant: Solution for injection in ampoules (commonly 5 IU/ml or 10 IU/ml; 1 ml ampoules).

Consume Type:

Parenteral (intravenous infusion or intramuscular injection; administered only by healthcare professionals).

Directions/Usage: Administered only under medical supervision with continuous monitoring of uterine contractions, maternal blood pressure, and fetal heart rate.

• For labour induction/augmentation: Usually given as a diluted intravenous infusion (e.g., 5 IU in 500 ml fluid), starting at a low rate and titrated according to response.
• For prevention/treatment of postpartum haemorrhage: 5–10 IU by slow intravenous injection or intramuscular injection after delivery of the baby (or as infusion).
• During caesarean section: 5 IU slow IV injection after delivery of the baby. Dose and rate are highly individualized. Never administer undiluted as a rapid bolus (risk of severe hypotension or water intoxication).

Common Side Effects:

• Uterine hyperstimulation (too frequent or strong contractions)
• Nausea, vomiting
• Headache
• Tachycardia (fast heart rate)
• Water intoxication (with prolonged high-dose infusion) Serious: Uterine rupture (rare but life-threatening), severe hypotension, fetal distress, anaphylactic reaction.

Package Type:

Glass ampoules of 1 ml (containing 5 IU or 10 IU); usually supplied in boxes of 5 or 10 ampoules.

Storage Advice: Store at 2–8°C (refrigerator). Do not freeze. Protect from light. Keep in original packaging. Use immediately after opening ampoule; discard unused portion.

Safety Advice:

• Administered only by trained healthcare professionals with facilities for monitoring mother and baby.
• Contraindicated in cases where vaginal delivery is not advisable (e.g., placenta praevia, fetal distress, cephalopelvic disproportion).
• Caution in multiple pregnancies, previous caesarean section, or grand multiparity (increased risk of uterine rupture).
• Monitor closely for signs of uterine hyperstimulation or water intoxication.
• Pregnancy: Used only when clearly indicated for obstetric reasons.
• Report excessive uterine contractions, abnormal fetal heart rate, or severe headache immediately.

Product Substitutes: Other oxytocin injections: Pitocin (original), generic oxytocin from various manufacturers (e.g., from Hospira, Fresenius, or local importers). In Ghana, Syntocinon or generic oxytocin 5 IU/ml or 10 IU/ml injections are common substitutes.

Manufacturer/Marketer:

Mylan.

Country of Origin:

India