Oxytocin (medication)
Oxytocin (medication)
Oxytocin (pronunciation: /ˌɒksɪˈtoʊsɪn/) is a medication and naturally occurring neuropeptide that plays a role in social bonding, sexual reproduction, childbirth, and the period after childbirth.
Etymology
The term "oxytocin" is derived from the Greek words "oxys" and "tokos", meaning "quick birth". It was named so due to its role in facilitating childbirth.
Uses
Oxytocin is used as a medication to facilitate childbirth. It can induce labor, control bleeding after childbirth, and enhance the production of breast milk. It is also used in veterinary medicine.
Pharmacology
Oxytocin works by increasing the concentration of calcium inside muscle cells that control contraction of the uterus. Increased calcium boosts the production of prostaglandins, which further enhance uterine muscle contraction.
Side Effects
Common side effects include redness or swelling at the injection site, mild nausea, and headache. Serious side effects may include water intoxication with an excessive dose.
Related Terms
- Pitocin: A brand name for synthetic oxytocin.
- Vasopressin: A hormone closely related to oxytocin.
- Postpartum hemorrhage: A condition that oxytocin can help prevent.
- Lactation: The process that oxytocin can stimulate.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Oxytocin (medication)
- Wikipedia's article - Oxytocin (medication)
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