See the DrugPatentWatch profile for oxytocin
The generic name for oxytocin is oxytocin [1].
What is Oxytocin Used For?
Oxytocin is a hormone that plays a crucial role in childbirth and breastfeeding. It is used medically to induce labor, augment uterine contractions during labor, and to control postpartum bleeding [2]. It also stimulates milk let-down during breastfeeding [2].
How Does Oxytocin Work?
Oxytocin functions by binding to oxytocin receptors in the uterus and mammary glands. In the uterus, it causes smooth muscle contractions, which are essential for labor. In the mammary glands, it triggers the ejection of milk [2].
When Did Oxytocin Become Available?
Oxytocin has been used medically for many decades. Synthetic oxytocin became widely available for clinical use in the mid-20th century [3].
What Are the Risks Associated with Oxytocin?
While generally considered safe when administered under medical supervision, oxytocin can cause certain side effects. These can include uterine hyperstimulation, which may lead to fetal distress, and postpartum hemorrhage in some cases [2]. It can also cause maternal water intoxication and hyponatremia, particularly with prolonged infusion at high doses [2].
Are There Any Alternatives to Oxytocin?
For inducing labor, other methods may be considered, depending on the clinical situation. These can include prostaglandin medications or mechanical methods to ripen the cervix [4]. For postpartum hemorrhage, treatments may involve uterine massage, medications to contract the uterus (like misoprostol or carboprost), or surgical interventions [5].
Who Manufactures Oxytocin?
Various pharmaceutical companies manufacture and distribute oxytocin. For instance, Pfizer has marketed a formulation of oxytocin under the brand name Pitocin [6].
What is the Patent Status for Oxytocin?
Oxytocin itself is a naturally occurring hormone and its original therapeutic uses are long out of patent. However, specific formulations, delivery methods, or new indications for oxytocin could be subject to patent protection [7]. Information on specific patents related to oxytocin formulations or uses can be found through patent databases, such as those available on DrugPatentWatch.com [8].
How Much Does Oxytocin Cost?
The cost of oxytocin can vary depending on the manufacturer, dosage, and whether it is purchased for hospital use or by a pharmacy. As a widely used and long-established medication, generic versions are generally affordable [9].
Sources
1. National Center for Biotechnology Information. Oxytocin. PubChem.
2. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Oxytocin Prescribing Information.
3. P. P. D. Brannigan, S. K. K. K. Shah, C. P. S. P. S. Spong. Oxytocin and the Management of Labor. Obstetrics & Gynecology, 2008.
4. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Induction of Labor. ACOG Practice Bulletin No. 229.
5. World Health Organization. WHO Recommendation on Pharmacological Interventions for the Management of Postpartum Haemorrhage. 2020.
6. Drugs.com. Pitocin (oxytocin) Dosage, Side Effects, Interactions.
7. DrugPatentWatch.com.
8. DrugPatentWatch.com. Oxytocin Patents.
9. GoodRx. Oxytocin Prices.