Oxytocin
Also known as: Pitocin, Syntocinon, The Love Hormone
Key Facts: Oxytocin
- Category
- Hormonal
- FDA Status
- FDA Approved
- Clinical Status
- FDA Approved - Labor/postpartum; Research ongoing for other uses
- Administration
- IV (obstetric), intranasal (research)
- Typical Dose
- 10-24 IU intranasal as needed
- Frequency
- As needed, intranasal
- Evidence Level
- FDA Approved
- Duration
- Single dose or short-term use
What to Expect
A naturally occurring peptide hormone crucial for social bonding, childbirth, and lactation. Being studied for autism, anxiety, and social disorders.
Mechanism of Action
Oxytocin binds to oxytocin receptors in the brain and peripheral tissues. In the brain, it modulates social cognition, trust, and bonding. Peripherally, it stimulates uterine contractions and milk ejection. Has anxiolytic effects.
Research Summary
FDA approved for labor induction and postpartum hemorrhage. Research shows promise for social anxiety, autism spectrum disorders, and PTSD. Studies demonstrate effects on trust, empathy, and social recognition.
Dosing Information
Typical Dosingⓘ
Community experience
10-24 IU intranasal as needed
10-40 IU per dose
As needed, intranasal
Intranasal delivery for social/bonding effects. Prescription required. Effects vary significantly between individuals.
Research Dosingⓘ
Scientific studies
Varies by indication
Doses from Studies
10-40 IU IV for labor
20-40 IU intranasal for research
Duration
Single dose or short-term use
Administration
IV (obstetric), intranasal (research)
Timing & Administration
Best Time to Take
As needed for social situations or bonding
As needed
Food Recommendation
With or without food
Why This Timing?
Oxytocin effects are situation-dependent. Use 30-60 minutes before desired effect.
Possible Side Effects
Not everyone experiences these effects. Individual responses vary based on dosage, duration, and personal factors.
- ●Headache
- ●Nausea and vomiting
- ●Uterine hypertonicity
- ●Blood pressure changes
- ●Arrhythmias
- ●Water intoxication (prolonged use)
- ●Can cause maternal and fetal complications
- ●FDA approved for obstetric use
References
Related Peptides
Peptides commonly compared with Oxytocin or used in similar applications.
Gonadorelin
FDAA synthetic version of gonadotropin-releasing hormone. Used diagnostically and therapeutically for various reproductive and hormonal conditions.
HormonalLeuprolide
FDAA GnRH agonist that suppresses testosterone and estrogen production. FDA approved for prostate cancer, endometriosis, uterine fibroids, and precocious puberty.
HormonalDesmopressin
FDAA synthetic analog of vasopressin (ADH) used for diabetes insipidus, bedwetting, and bleeding disorders. Does not cause vasoconstriction like natural vasopressin.
HormonalOctreotide
FDAA synthetic somatostatin analog that inhibits multiple hormones. Used for acromegaly, carcinoid tumors, and various GI conditions.
HormonalLanreotide
FDAA long-acting somatostatin analog similar to octreotide. FDA approved for acromegaly and gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors.
HormonalPasireotide
FDAA somatostatin analog with broader receptor binding than octreotide. Specifically effective for Cushing's disease due to SST5 activity.
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Educational Information Only
This information is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with qualified healthcare providers before making any decisions about peptides or other substances. The protocols listed reflect doses observed in research studies, not recommendations.