Obstetrics and gynecology
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Oxytocin, 5 to 10 units, is frequently given as a bolus injection following term delivery or elective termination of pregnancy. It is not general knowledge that this has any untoward effects. ⋯ However, heart rate increased 30% and stroke volume 25%, so that the cardiac output was elevated more than 50% above control. Oxytocin given as a dilute solution produced no circulatory change; hence, we suggest that this drug be administered in such fashion rather than by bolus injection.