Oxytocin
FDA-approvedNeurohypophysial Peptide | Social Bonding & Reproductive Hormone
Nine-amino-acid peptide hormone produced in hypothalamus, released by posterior pituitary. Functions in social bonding, trust, empathy, reproduction, childbirth, lactation.
Molecular & research data
- Sequence
- Cys-Tyr-Ile-Gln-Asn-Cys-Pro-Leu-Gly-NH2
- Molecular weight
- 1,007.19 Da
- Half-life
- 3-6 minutes
- Primary targets
- dopamine-receptor, gaba, oxytocin-receptor
- Routes (research)
- Injectable, Nasal, Oral
- Storage
- Refrigerate at 2-8°C; protect from light
Overview
Nine-amino-acid peptide hormone produced in hypothalamus, released by posterior pituitary. Functions in social bonding, trust, empathy, reproduction, childbirth, lactation. FDA-approved synthetically for labor induction and postpartum hemorrhage.
Mechanism of action
Binds oxytocin receptors on uterine smooth muscle, triggering calcium influx and myometrial contractions. Stimulates prostaglandin release. In CNS, modulates GABAergic, serotonergic, dopaminergic neurotransmission; reduces cortisol and HPA axis activity.
Key research findings
- FDA-approved for labor induction with precise dosing via IV
- Immediate onset in obstetric settings
- Established safety profile in clinical use
- Researched for anxiety, PTSD, autism, sexual dysfunction
Research applications
Obstetric (FDA Approved)
- Labor Induction — Initiates or augments uterine contractions when vaginal delivery medically indicated.
- Postpartum Hemorrhage Control — Controls postpartum bleeding through uterine contraction stimulation during third stage.
- Incomplete Abortion Management — Adjunctive therapy for incomplete or inevitable abortion in second trimester.
Research/Emerging
- Autism Spectrum Disorders — Extensive research with mixed results on social functioning; optimal dosing unclear.
- PTSD Augmentation — Combined with exposure therapy; shows reduced PTSD/depression symptoms.
- Social Anxiety — Decreases amygdala reactivity to social threats; normalizes brain connectivity.
- Sexual Function — Improves libido, arousal, orgasm intensity in both sexes.
Oxytocin FAQ
Does intranasal oxytocin actually improve social anxiety, or is it just a placebo?+
Research shows oxytocin decreases amygdala reactivity to social threats and normalizes brain connectivity related to social processing. It's not a placebo, but it's not a miracle either. The effects are measurable in brain imaging and behavioral tests, though the magnitude varies between individuals. Many people need consistent dosing to see benefits.
Can I use oxytocin for sexual function without a medical reason?+
Yes, it's researched for sexual enhancement—the file lists sexual function as an indication with 24-40 IU taken 30-45 minutes before activity. However, it's FDA-approved only for obstetric use. Research/compounded forms are used off-label for sexual dysfunction and enhancement, but quality and safety vary depending on source.
Will alcohol interfere with oxytocin's effects?+
Yes. Alcohol suppresses endogenous oxytocin release, which would significantly reduce any therapeutic or enhancement benefits. You should avoid alcohol if you're using oxytocin for anxiety, bonding, or sexual function.
How is intranasal oxytocin different from the obstetric injection?+
The obstetric injection (FDA-approved Pitocin) is high-dose IV for labor induction with immediate onset and precise dosing control. Intranasal oxytocin delivers much lower doses and achieves brain delivery via olfactory pathways with slower onset (15-30 minutes) but longer duration (2-4 hours). They're essentially different formulations for different purposes.
References
Related peptides
Selank
Well studiedAnxiolytic & Nootropic Peptide | Tuftsin Analog
Selank is a synthetic heptapeptide analog of the naturally occurring immune peptide tuftsin, developed by the Russian Academy of Sciences.
Kisspeptin
Emerging researchKISS1 Gene Product | Reproductive Neuropeptide
Kisspeptin acts as a master regulator of the reproductive system, stimulating GnRH neurons essential for puberty, fertility, and reproductive function.
BPC-157
PreclinicalPentadecapeptide studied for tissue repair
BPC-157 is a synthetic 15-amino-acid peptide derived from a protein found in gastric juice, studied extensively in animal models for accelerated healing of tendon, ligament, muscle, and gut tissue.
Last reviewed: 2026-06-26. Information is provided for research and educational reference only — see our disclaimer.