Oxytocin
Also known as: Pitocin, Syntocinon, Love Hormone, Bonding Hormone
Neurohypophysial Peptide | Social Bonding & Reproductive Hormone
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.
Key benefits
- 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
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.
Molecular data
- Type
- Cyclic nonapeptide
- Half-life
- 3-6 minutes
Sequence
Cys-Tyr-Ile-Gln-Asn-Cys-Pro-Leu-Gly-NH2
Indications
What the research community uses this compound for, with self-reported effectiveness.
Obstetric (FDA Approved)
Research/Emerging
Dosing protocols
Common protocols by delivery method. Adjust the curve below to model accumulation in your own cycle.
Delivery method
| Protocol | Dose | Frequency | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| — | 0.5-2 mU/min initial, titrate to 1-2 mU/min every 30-60 min | Continuous IV infusion | — |
| — | 10 units IM or 10-40 units in IV solution | Single dose after placental delivery | — |
Delivery method
| Protocol | Dose | Frequency | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| — | 20-24 IU | Once daily or before social situations | — |
| — | 24-48 IU daily | Twice daily | — |
| — | 40 IU | Before therapy sessions | — |
| — | 24-40 IU | 30-45 minutes before activity | — |
Delivery method
| Protocol | Dose | Frequency | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| — | 50-100 IU | Once daily | — |
| — | 100 IU | 30-45 minutes before activity | — |
Safety
Reported adverse effects, contraindications, and what to monitor on cycle.
Common side effects
- Mild headache
- Nasal irritation (intranasal)
- Nausea or vomiting
- Transient blood pressure changes
Contraindications
- Certain obstetric conditions (see prescribing info)
- Pregnancy (without medical supervision)
- Active sinus infection (intranasal)
- Severe hyponatremia
Monitoring
- Continuous electronic fetal monitoring during labor (injectable)
- Blood pressure monitoring
- Electrolyte levels if exceeding 24 IU daily long-term (intranasal)