Carbetocin

Carbetocin is a synthetic analog of the natural pituitary hormone oxytocin. It is primarily used to prevent uterine atony and excessive bleeding (postpartum hemorrhage) following childbirth, particularly after a Cesarean section. Carbetocin acts similarly to oxytocin but has a longer duration of action, which can be advantageous in maintaining sustained uterine contractions. It is administered via injection, typically intravenously or intramuscularly, shortly after delivery. The drug gained popularity due to its extended half-life compared to oxytocin, allowing for a single-dose administration in many cases. Its efficacy and safety profile have been extensively studied, leading to its adoption in many countries for the management of the third stage of labor. (EMA SmPC, FDA label)