DRUG STUDY:

Notes:
 Oxytocin contracts the uterus during the birthing process, esp. toward the end of the
pregnancy, helping expel the baby.
 Oxytocin also contracts myoepithelial cells in the breasts, causing milk to be
expressed from the alveoli into the ducts so that the baby can obtain it by suckling
 USES: (Antepartum) Induction of labor in pts with medical indication (e.g., at or near
term), to stimulate reinforcement of labor, as adjunct in managing incomplete or
inevitable abortion.
 USES: (Postpartum) To produce uterine contractions during third stage of labor and to
control postpartum bleeding/hemorrhage
 Used to induce labor during pregnancy, to control postpartum hemorrhage, and to
prevent uterine atony post delivery Pregnancy
 Considerations: To be used for medical rather than elective induction of labor. Small
amounts of exogenous oxytocin are expected to reach the fetal circulation.
 Nonteratogenic adverse reaction is reported in the neonate as well the mother
 Overall idea of Oxytocin: It facilitates smooth-muscle contraction in the uterus of a
patient already in labor but experiencing inadequate uterine contractility,
tightening and shortening of uterine muscles.
 It is important that the patient receiving oxytocin not experience uterine hyperstimulation,
which causes markedly increased pain and compromised FHR patterns secondary to
impaired placental perfusion

TERMINOLOGIES
1. Myoepithelial cells - are specialized cells found in various tissues, particularly in
structures like the mammary glands (breast tissue) and salivary glands. These cells
have characteristics similar to both muscle cells and epithelial cells. Such cells have the
ability to contract, similar to muscle cells. When they contract, they help push or squeeze
substances through ducts or passageways. For example, in the mammary glands,
myoepithelial cells contract to help expel milk from the milk ducts during breastfeeding.
2. Antepartum - refers to the period of time before childbirth, specifically during pregnancy.
It encompasses the entire duration of the pregnancy, from conception until the onset of
labor and delivery. During the antepartum period, medical care and monitoring are
focused on ensuring the health and well-being of both the pregnant woman and the
developing fetus. Routine prenatal check-ups, ultrasounds, and various screenings are
typically conducted during this phase to assess the progress of the pregnancy and
address any potential issues or complications.
3. Postpartum - refers to the time immediately following childbirth. It includes the first six
weeks after delivery, although some healthcare providers may consider it to extend up to
six months post-birth. During this time, the mother's body undergoes significant physical
and hormonal changes as it returns to its non-pregnant state. The postpartum period is a
critical time for maternal recovery and adjustment to the demands of caring for a
newborn. Healthcare professionals closely monitor the mother and baby during this
phase to address any post-birth complications and provide support for the physical and
emotional challenges that can arise.