Vol 92, No 7 (2021)
Clinical vignette
Published online: 2021-07-16
Water intoxication in the course of stimulation of labor with oxytocin
Abstract
The antidiuretic attribute of oxytocin can cause many side effects. Water intoxication is one of the most serious complications. The authors describe a case of water intoxication with neurological symptoms and severe hyponatraemia in the course of natural labor stimulated by oxytocin in a low-dose regimen.
Keywords: oxytocinantidiuretic effectwater intoxication
References
- Lauersen N, Birnbaum S. Water intoxication associated with oxytocin administration during saline-induced abortion. American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology. 1975; 121(1): 2–6.
- Jensen I, Bruns BJ. Water Intoxication After Oxytocin-Induced Midtrimester Abortion. N Z Med J. 1979; 89(634): 300–302.
- Ophir E, Solt I, Odeh M, et al. Water intoxication-a dangerous condition in labor and delivery rooms. Obstet Gynecol Surv. 2007; 62(11): 731–738.
- Feeney JG. Water intoxication and oxytocin. Br Med J (Clin Res Ed). 1982; 285(6337): 243.
- Wang JY, Lin SH, Lin YF, et al. An unforgotten cause of acute hyponatremia: water intoxication due to oxytocin administration in a pregnant woman. Nephron. 2000; 86(3): 342–343.