LYCOS RETRIEVER 
Oxytocin: Milk
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Oxytocin is a neuropeptide synthesized in the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) and supraoptic nucleus (SON) of the hypothalamus. Oxytocin plays a major neuroendocrine role, modulating diverse physiological functions in mammals such as parturition, lactation, affiliative behaviour and social memory (Pederson et al. 1992; Brussaard et al. 1997; Russell & Leng, 1998). Genetically manipulated mice lacking oxytocin exhibit a defect in the milk ejection reflex and social amnesia, whereas other reproductive behaviours are normal in both males and females (Nishimori et al. 1996; Young et al. 1996; Gross et al. 1998; Ferguson et al. 2000). In addition to being a classical neurohormone, oxytocin plays a role as a neurotransmitter or neuromodulator in the central nervous system (Hatton, 1990: Armstrong, 1995; Kombian et al. 1997).
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Oxytocin can facilitate milk ejection, but does not have any galactopoietic properties. While oxytocin only has minimal antidiuretic properties, water intoxication can occur if it is administered at too rapid a rate and/or if excessively large volumes of electrolyte-free intravenous fluids are administered.
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Oxytocin may be used as a uterine contractor to precipitate and accelerate normal parturition and postpartum evacuation of uterine debris. In surgery it may be used postoperatively following cesarean section to facilitate involution and resistance to the large inflow of blood. It will contract smooth muscle cells of the mammary gland for milk letdown if the udder is in proper physiological state.
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: Oxytocin products are approved for several species, including horses, dairy cattle, beef cattle, sheep, swine, cats and dogs. There is no milk or meat withdrawal times specified for oxytocin. Oxytocin is a prescription (Rx) drug.
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