Pituitrin

Pituitrin is a pharmaceutical preparation that contains the hormones oxytocin and vasopressin, which are secreted by the pituitary gland. It is used in medicine to induce labor, control bleeding after childbirth, and to treat certain conditions related to the pituitary gland.

Composition

Pituitrin is a complex mixture of hormones, primarily oxytocin and vasopressin. Oxytocin is a hormone that stimulates the contraction of the uterus during labor and promotes the release of breast milk. Vasopressin, also known as antidiuretic hormone (ADH), helps regulate water balance in the body by controlling the amount of water the kidneys reabsorb.

Uses

Pituitrin is used in various medical applications. It is often used to induce labor in pregnant women, as the oxytocin it contains can stimulate uterine contractions. It is also used to control postpartum hemorrhage, a potentially life-threatening condition where a woman bleeds heavily after giving birth. In addition, pituitrin can be used to treat diabetes insipidus, a condition caused by a lack of vasopressin.

Side Effects

Like all medications, pituitrin can cause side effects. These can include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and allergic reactions. In rare cases, it can cause severe water retention, leading to a potentially dangerous condition called water intoxication.

Contraindications

Pituitrin should not be used in patients with hypersensitivity to oxytocin or vasopressin, or in those with cardiovascular disease, as it can cause a rapid drop in blood pressure. It should also be used with caution in patients with kidney disease, as it can cause water retention.

See Also

• Oxytocin
• Vasopressin
• Pituitary gland
• Postpartum hemorrhage
• Diabetes insipidus