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How to discontinue Oxytocin or Pitocin®?

a) Abruptly stop infusion
b) Gradually taper off the dosage
c) Administer an antagonist
d) Switch to oral medication

1 Answer

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Final answer:

To discontinue Oxytocin or Pitocin, gradually taper off the dosage rather than abruptly stopping the infusion.

Step-by-step explanation:

Oxytocin or Pitocin and its administration play a crucial role in labor. If a person needs to discontinue the use of Oxytocin or Pitocin, the dosage should be gradually tapered off to avoid abrupt discontinuation and potential complications. Abruptly stopping the infusion can lead to rapid changes in contractions and may not be safe. An antagonist is not typically used to discontinue Oxytocin or Pitocin, as they are used to block the effects of the hormones. Switching to oral medication is also not an option since Oxytocin and Pitocin are primarily administered intravenously or as nasal sprays during labor.

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