Oxytocin induction of labor: a comparison of 20- and 60-min dose increment levels.
OBJECTIVE
To compare the efficacy and complications of oxytocin dose increments at 20- and 60-min intervals for induction of labor in women with low parity.


METHODS
One hundred women of low parity requiring induction of labor were randomly allocated to 20- and 60-min oxytocin dose increments, 50 patients in each group. The basal oxytocin dose was 1 milliunit/min and doubling of the oxytocin dose was done at intervals of 20 and 60 min.


RESULTS
The group with 60-min increments had a decreased incidence of uterine hyperstimulation, cesarean section and operative vaginal delivery. The induction-delivery interval was similar in both groups.


CONCLUSIONS
The oxytocin infusion regimen with increments at 60-min intervals is safer than and equally effective as 20-min incremental intervals.
Goni
S
S
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India.
Sawhney
H
H
Gopalan
S
S
D000328:Adult; D004305:Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; D004334:Drug Administration Schedule; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007262:Infusions, Intravenous; D007751:Labor, Induced / Q000379:methods*; D010121:Oxytocin / Q000008:administration & dosage; D010298:Parity; D011247:Pregnancy; D011446:Prospective Studies; D013997:Time Factors
D010121:Oxytocin