Oxytocin
Oxytocin is a naturally-occurring nonapeptide synthesized in the hypothalamus and released from the posterior pituitary. Clinically it is FDA-approved (Pitocin) for labor induction. In research it is studied for effects on social cognition, stress-response, and cortisol regulation.
Mechanism
- Oxytocin receptor agonism. Widespread receptor distribution including limbic and cortical structures.
Common research protocols
Dosing information below reflects published research literature. It is not medical advice and is not a treatment plan.
- Common research route. Subcutaneous injection.
Evidence at a glance
- Human data. Extensive research base on labor induction (clinical). Cognitive and social-behavior research is more heterogeneous.
Reconstitution & handling
Lyophilized peptides ship as freeze-dried powder. Reconstitute with bacteriostatic water; refrigerate the reconstituted vial. Use the reconstitution calculator to get syringe-unit readings for your target dose. General reconstitution and syringe guidance in the How We Work page.
Primary-literature list for this guide available on request via contact.
Further reading — external professional sources
- Oxytocin — Wikipedia
- PubMed — search "oxytocin intranasal"
- ClinicalTrials.gov — trials for "oxytocin"
- FDA Drugs@FDA — oxytocin