Very Common
Less Common
Related Observations
This treatment might be used for a horse exhibiting these signs.
Treatment
A way to improve or resolve a condition or diagnosis. This might include resolving the underlying cause or treating the signs of disease (symptomatic treatment).
Cost: Under $100
These cost ranges are approximate and may vary from region to region.
Additional charges may also apply.
YOUR VET MAY Recommend
Oxytocin Injection
Cost: Under $100
These cost ranges are approximate and may vary from region to region.
Additional charges may also apply.
Summary
Oxytocin is a reproductive peptide hormone produced by the hypothalamus in the brain. It is stored and released by the pituitary gland.
The most important uses of oxytocin in equine veterinary medicine are in mares. It causes uterine contraction for the treatment of a retained placenta and the emptying of uterine fluid accumulations, which is helpful for post-breeding uterine inflammation.
Oxytocin has also been found effective at keeping mares out of heat for prolonged periods. It is thought to block the uterine lining's release of the prostaglandin that breaks the corpus luteum. Normally, the corpus luteum is eliminated by prostaglandin, allowing a mare to return to estrus. Oxytocin causes the corpus luteum to persist, which maintains elevated progesterone concentrations and keeps a mare out of heat.
Oxytocin is also used in cases of foal rejection. There are veterinary protocols for the use of oxytocin and prostaglandin to encourage mothering behavior in mares that have rejected their foals.
Oxytocin has a variety of other uses as well. It can be a useful treatment in some cases of choke (esophageal obstruction).
Your vet may use or dispense im injections of oxytocin to you as part of a treatment plan for any of these conditions.
The most important uses of oxytocin in equine veterinary medicine are in mares. It causes uterine contraction for the treatment of a retained placenta and the emptying of uterine fluid accumulations, which is helpful for post-breeding uterine inflammation.
Oxytocin has also been found effective at keeping mares out of heat for prolonged periods. It is thought to block the uterine lining's release of the prostaglandin that breaks the corpus luteum. Normally, the corpus luteum is eliminated by prostaglandin, allowing a mare to return to estrus. Oxytocin causes the corpus luteum to persist, which maintains elevated progesterone concentrations and keeps a mare out of heat.
Oxytocin is also used in cases of foal rejection. There are veterinary protocols for the use of oxytocin and prostaglandin to encourage mothering behavior in mares that have rejected their foals.
Oxytocin has a variety of other uses as well. It can be a useful treatment in some cases of choke (esophageal obstruction).
Your vet may use or dispense im injections of oxytocin to you as part of a treatment plan for any of these conditions.
my vet's role
Related Diagnoses
This treatment might be used to treat these conditions or ailments.
Very Common
Less Common
Know Related Treatments
Your vet considers other treatments that might be used along with or instead of this treatment.
Less Common
CONSIDER POTENTIAL SIDE EFFECTS & COMPLICATIONS
Uterine cramping is a common side effect of oxytocin administration. It usually occurs shortly after administration and will appear as colic signs such as pawing, stretching, kicking at belly, and/or lying down.CONSIDER REASONS NOT TO USE THIS TREATMENT
Oxytocin should not be given to mares during labor, especially during dystocia (difficult birthing) as it may worsen cramping and result in injury.your role
Related Skills
These are skills you might need if your horse is getting this treatment.
Is it working? Timeframe for effect.
Within minutes of intravenous administration of oxytocin, mares that have foaled will show signs of milk letdown and uterine contraction. They will also show signs of uterine cramping, which are difficult to distinguish from signs of abdominal pain that result from other causes. Questions To Ask Your Vet:
- How can I distinguish between the anticipated side effects & colic?
further reading & resources
Helpful Terms and Topics
Written, reviewed or shared by experts in equine health
Related References:
Parkinson KC, Vanderwall Rigas J, Sweat L Effect of chronic administration of oxytocin on corpus luteum function in cycling mares. Proceedings, Western Section, American Society of Animal Science Vol. 66, 2015.