Oxytocin and antidiuresis in pregnancy at term

ABSTRACT

The urinary output in thirty-eight patients was observed during the intermittent running of an oxytocin drip at or near term. Urinary volumes at half-hourly intervals were significantly lower during an oxytocin infusion than when dextrose only was infused. No differences in blood pressure changes were evident, in comparison with normal patients in labour. It is shown that oxytocin has an antidiuretic effect on the kidney. The sensitivity of this effect increases as pregnancy advances. Oxytocin infusion may need to be used with care in women in whom renal output is already compromised (Summary)