* Antepartum: Pitocin is indicated for the initiation or improvement of uterine contractions, where this is desirable and considered
suitable for reasons of fetal or maternal concern, in order to achieve vaginal delivery. It is indicated for (1) induction
of labor in patients with a medical indication for the initiation of labor, such as Rh problems, maternal diabetes,
preeclampsia at or near term, when delivery is in the best interests of mother and fetus or when membranes are
prematurely ruptured and delivery is indicated; (2) stimulation or reinforcement of labor, as in selected cases of
uterine inertia; (3) as adjunctive therapy in the management of incomplete or inevitable abortion. In the first
trimester, curettage is generally considered primary therapy. In second trimester abortion, oxytocin infusion will
often be successful in emptying the uterus. Other means of therapy, however, may be required in such cases.
* Postpartum: Pitocin is indicated to produce uterine contractions during the third stage of labor and to control postpartum
bleeding or hemorrhage.
