Mechanism of Action of Oxytocin Nasal Spray
May 30, 2021
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lei Ling
Introduction
1. Promote the initiation of lactation and maintain adequate breast milk production;
2. Increase total milk volume;
3. Effectively prevent postpartum hemorrhage following vaginal delivery;
4. Facilitate uterine involution after vaginal delivery, prevent intrauterine fluid accumulation, and shorten lochia duration;
5. Promptly establish the milk ejection reflex to facilitate infant suckling;
6. Exert neurotransmitter effects, promoting maternal calmness, enabling breastfeeding behavior, and fostering mother–infant bonding.
Oxytocin nasal spray is a Western medicine belonging to the class of posterior pituitary hormones. Its primary active ingredient is oxytocin. The effects of oxytocin nasal spray include the following aspects:
1. Promotes initiation of lactation and maintains adequate breast milk production;
2. Accelerates lactation onset in mothers delivering preterm and increases total milk volume;
3. Effectively prevents postpartum hemorrhage following vaginal delivery, with superior efficacy compared to intramuscular injection of oxytocin;
4. Facilitates uterine involution after vaginal delivery, prevents intrauterine fluid accumulation, and shortens lochia duration;
5. Allows for repeated self-administration to promptly establish the milk ejection reflex, induce nipple erection, and facilitate infant suckling;
6. Acts as a neurotransmitter, promoting maternal calmness and facilitating breastfeeding behavior, thereby establishing a lifelong mother-infant bond.
Oxytocin nasal spray assists in milk ejection but does not stimulate milk production—a critically important distinction. Moreover, this product is indicated exclusively for facilitating the ejection of colostrum during the first week postpartum. Its use is time-limited—specifically restricted to the first seven days after delivery—as it confers no benefit beyond this period.
Specific dosing instructions should be followed as directed by a physician. According to available documentation, potential adverse reactions include occasional nasal irritation, epistaxis, uterine bleeding, excessive uterine contractions, and lacrimation. It is essential to note that this product only aids milk ejection and has no effect on milk synthesis.
