Oxytocin is also used in veterinary medicine to facilitate birth and to stimulate milk release. The tocolytic agent atosiban (Tractocile) acts as an antagonist of oxytocin receptors. It is registered in many countries for use in suppressing premature labor between 24 and 33 weeks of gestation. It has fewer side effects than drugs previously used for this purpose (such as ritodrine, salbutamol and terbutaline).Oxytocin has not been found to be useful for improving breastfeeding success. Contraindications
Oxytocin injection (synthetic) is contraindicated in any of these conditions:
Substantial cephalopelvic disproportion
Unfavorable fetal position or presentation (e.g., transverse lies) undeliverable without conversion before delivery
Obstetric emergencies where maternal or fetal risk-to-benefit ratio favors surgery
Fetal distress when delivery is not imminent
Umbilical cord prolapse
Uterine activity fails to progress adequately
Hyperactive or hypertonic uterus
Vaginal delivery is contraindicated (e.g., invasive cervical carcinoma, active genital herpes infection, total placenta previa, vasa previa, cord presentation or prolapse)
Uterine or cervical scarring from previous cesarean section or major cervical or uterine (e.g., transfundal) surgery
Unengaged fetal head
History of hypersensitivity to oxytocin or any ingredient in the formulation

Side effects
Oxytocin is relatively safe when used at recommended doses, and side effects are uncommon. These maternal events have been reported:
Subarachnoid hemorrhage
Increased blood pressure
Cardiac arrhythmia including increased or decreased heart rate, and premature ventricular contraction
Impaired uterine blood flow
Pelvic hematoma
Afibrinogenemia
Anaphylaxis
Nausea and vomiting
Increase fetal blood flowExcessive dosage or long-term administration (over a period of 24 hours or longer) has been known to result in tetanic uterine contractions, uterine rupture, postpartum hemorrhage, and water intoxication, sometimes fatal.
Relationship counseling: The use of oxytocin in relationship counseling for well-being has been suggested. See also
Attachment theory
List of investigational anxiolytics
List of investigational sexual dysfunction drugs


== References ==