High- versus low-dose oxytocin for augmentation or induction of labor.
OBJECTIVE
To compare the use of high- and low-dose oxytocin for augmentation or induction of labor.


METHODS
Clinical trials were accessed through MEDLINE (1966-November 2003). Published literature relevant to the use of oxytocin for augmentation or induction of labor was evaluated.


METHODS
Articles identified from the data sources were evaluated and included if they were clinical trials comparing high-versus low-dose oxytocin for augmentation or induction of labor.


RESULTS
Oxytocin is a treatment of choice for augmentation and induction of labor; however, no consensus exists regarding optimal dosing. Relevant studies comparing high-dose (2-6 mU/min) and low-dose (1-2 mU/min) therapy for labor augmentation and induction were evaluated.


CONCLUSIONS
High-dose oxytocin decreases the time from admission to vaginal delivery, but does not appear to decrease the incidence of cesarean sections when compared with low-dose therapy.
Patka
John H
JH
Department of Pharmacy and Drug Information, Grady Health System, Atlanta, GA 30303-3031, USA. jpatka@gmh.edu
Lodolce
Amy E
AE
Johnston
Angela K
AK
D002585:Cesarean Section; D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D004305:Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007751:Labor, Induced; D007743:Labor, Obstetric / Q000187:drug effects*; D010120:Oxytocics / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D010121:Oxytocin / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D011247:Pregnancy
D010120:Oxytocics; D010121:Oxytocin