Half life of IV oxytocin is –
**Core Concept**
Oxytocin is a peptide hormone used to induce uterine contractions during labor and to prevent postpartum hemorrhage. The half-life of a medication is a critical pharmacokinetic parameter that determines how long it remains active in the body.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The half-life of IV oxytocin is approximately 3-5 minutes. This is because oxytocin is rapidly metabolized by aminopeptidases, specifically oxytocinase, in the blood and tissues. The rapid metabolism of oxytocin is essential for its short duration of action, allowing for precise control over uterine contractions.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect because it does not accurately reflect the half-life of IV oxytocin.
**Option B:** This option is incorrect because it is significantly longer than the actual half-life of IV oxytocin.
**Option C:** This option is incorrect because it is not a valid half-life for IV oxytocin.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Remember that oxytocin's short half-life requires continuous infusion to maintain its effects, and its rapid metabolism makes it an ideal choice for inducing uterine contractions.
**Correct Answer:** B. 3-5 minutes