Response of Pregnant Human Uterus to Oxytocin Given Intranasally

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Abstract
The response of the pregnant uterus at term to the intranasal administration of oxytocin (Syntocinon) was studied in 15 patients by continuous recording of the amniotic pressure. None of the subjects were in labor and all had intact membranes. According to the uterine response, the patients were grouped in three categories: (1) no response detectable, (2) marked response, and (3) heterogenous gradations of uterine activity. The absorption from the nasal mucosa could be reproduced for the most part by an intravenous infusion of 2 mU per minute of oxytocin; however, instances in which the absorption was comparable to infusions of 10 and 20 mU per minute were found. The unpredictability of absorption and uterine response makes the intranasal route of administration relatively unsafe and it is not routinely recommended in the management of the pregnant patient.

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