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Oxytocin

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Summary

OXT, Love hormone

Oxytocin is a naturally occurring hormone known for its role in childbirth, nursing, and social bonding. The pharmaceutical form (Pitocin) is FDA-approved for inducing labor and preventing postpartum bleeding. Research into nasal spray forms for social anxiety and other conditions has shown mixed results.

Current Research
  • Bone density research
  • Cardiovascular recovery models
  • Metabolic and appetite signaling
  • Wound healing
Identification
CAS
50-56-6
Formula
C43H66N11O12S2
M.W.
1007.2 g/mol

Key Research Statistics

Neuropeptide & Social Bonding

FDAApproved (Pitocin)70+ years of clinical use — most established neuropeptide
1,000+Published StudiesMost-studied neuropeptide in behavioral neuroscience
17%Trust IncreaseKosfeld 2005 — more money transferred to anonymous partners
24 IUStandard Research DoseIntranasal — 32 IU shows no additional benefit (threshold effect)
15+Human RCTsAcute prosocial effects well-replicated. Chronic use: mixed results.

Need-to-Know

  • Room Temperature (Lyophilized): Up to 3 weeks
  • Refrigerated (Reconstituted): 7-14 days
  • Frozen (Lyophilized): 12+ months
  • Reconstitution Solution: Bacteriostatic water, Sterile water
  • Appearance: White to off-white powder

Regulatory Status

FDA-approvedApprovedApproved

FDA-approved for specific medical indications. Research applications include social bonding, stress response, and wellness.

Sources: FDA.gov

History

1950s
Isolated and synthesized by Vincent du Vigneaud in 1955; won Nobel Prize in Chemistry.
1960s
Approved to induce labor in childbirth.
1970s
Studies by Pedersen showed it affects maternal bonding in animals.
1980s
Research on social bonding and relationships expanded.
1990s
First human studies showed effects on trust and social behavior.
2000s
Tested for autism and social disorders; mixed results.
2010s
Stable versions created; nasal spray studied for mental health.
2020s
Studies challenged 'love hormone' label; research on metabolism began.

3D Structure

9-amino-acid peptide · 1007.2 g/mol

Interactive model
Oxytocin molecule previewExplore 3D Structure

Oxytocin at the Cellular Level

Neuropeptide hormone

Mechanism
Oxytocin cellular mechanism preview

Oxytocin in the Body

Hypothalamic neuropeptide hormone

Reproductive
Oxytocin in the Body

Research Library

Peer-reviewed studies

From Published Literature

"We previously reported that oxytocin can induce pain relief and described the possibility how oxytocin in the dorsal horn and/or the dorsal root ganglion relieves joint and muscle pain."

Dr. Eiji ItoTokyo Women's Medical University
Verify on PubMed

Complete Your Protocol

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