Overview
Oxytocin is classified as a neuropeptide peptide. Social bonding, anxiety reduction, gut motility, anti-inflammation, libido, trust and empathy.
Nonapeptide produced in the hypothalamus and released by the posterior pituitary. Binds oxytocin receptors (OXTR) broadly expressed in brain, heart, gut, and immune cells. Modulates HPA axis stress response, reduces cortisol, promotes prosocial behavior, accelerates GI motility, and exerts anti-inflammatory effects via NF-kB inhibition. Intranasal administration crosses blood-brain barrier to produce central effects.
Also known as: OXT, Pitocin (IV form), Syntocinon
Category
Neuropeptide
Half-Life
0.083h
Route
Nasal
FDA Status
Not Approved
How Does Oxytocin Work?
Nonapeptide produced in the hypothalamus and released by the posterior pituitary. Binds oxytocin receptors (OXTR) broadly expressed in brain, heart, gut, and immune cells. Modulates HPA axis stress response, reduces cortisol, promotes prosocial behavior, accelerates GI motility, and exerts anti-inflammatory effects via NF-kB inhibition. Intranasal administration crosses blood-brain barrier to produce central effects.
At the molecular level, Oxytocin operates through pathways characteristic of the Neuropeptide class, interacting with target receptors and downstream signaling cascades to produce its observed effects.
Published Research
The following studies are indexed from PubMed and peer-reviewed journals:
[1]Intranasal oxytocin reduces cortisol and enhances social cognition
Heinrichs et al.: Intranasal oxytocin reduced cortisol response to social stress and anxiety compared to placebo in a double-blind RCT.
Evidence: moderate[2]Oxytocin improves gastrointestinal motility in functional dyspepsia
Clinical research demonstrating oxytocin's role in accelerating gastric emptying and improving symptoms in functional gastrointestinal disorders.
Evidence: moderateSafety Profile
IV/IM oxytocin (Pitocin/Syntocinon) is FDA-approved for obstetric indications only. Intranasal oxytocin as a research compound is NOT FDA-approved. Research use only. Short half-life. May cause water retention at high doses.
| Side Effect | Incidence | Severity |
|---|---|---|
| Water retention | ~5% | mild |
| Nasal irritation | ~5% | mild |
| Mild headache | ~3% | mild |
Sourcing Oxytocin for Research
If you're looking to source Oxytocin for laboratory research, our vendor directory compares pricing, purity testing, and COA verification from independently vetted suppliers.
* Research vendor — verify your regional regulations before purchase.
Full Research Profile
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