Oxytocin, often referred to as the “love hormone,” is a neuropeptide that plays a vital role in social behaviour, emotional regulation, and maternal bonding. It is best known for its role in childbirth and lactation. Still, recent research has shown that oxytocin has many other functions in the body, including regulating stress, anxiety, and social interactions.
What is Oxytocin?
Oxytocin is a hormone and neuropeptide produced in the hypothalamus and secreted by the pituitary gland. It is structurally similar to vasopressin, another neuropeptide, and both hormones are synthesized and stored in the same neurons in the hypothalamus. Oxytocin is released into the bloodstream and travels to various body parts, including the brain and the uterus, where it acts as a neurotransmitter and hormone.
Oxytocin and Childbirth
Oxytocin plays a crucial role in the birthing process by causing the uterus to contract and helping the mother’s body to push the baby out. It also stimulates breast milk production and promotes maternal bonding with the newborn. Oxytocin also plays a role in the father’s hormonal response during childbirth and in the postpartum period, which is thought to lead to increased bonding with the newborn.
Oxytocin and Social Interaction
Oxytocin has been shown to affect social behaviour and emotional regulation. Research has shown that oxytocin levels increase during social interactions, such as during a hug or a conversation, and that people with higher levels of oxytocin have more positive social interactions and are less likely to experience social anxiety. Oxytocin has also been found to play a role in regulating trust, empathy, and generosity.
Oxytocin and Mental Health
Oxytocin has been shown to play a role in mental health by reducing stress and anxiety. Studies have found that people with lower levels of oxytocin are more likely to experience stress and anxiety. In comparison, people with higher levels of oxytocin are more resilient to stress and have better emotional regulation. Oxytocin has also been found to be effective in treating conditions such as depression, PTSD and autism.
In conclusion, Oxytocin is a hormone and neuropeptide that plays a vital role in social behaviour, emotional regulation, and maternal bonding. It is best known for its role in childbirth and lactation. Still, recent research has shown that oxytocin has many other functions in the body, including the regulation of stress, anxiety, and social interactions. More research is needed to understand the complex mechanisms of action of Oxytocin fully. Still, current evidence suggests that it holds great promise as a therapeutic agent for a wide range of mental and physical health conditions.
Dosage Information
The dosage of Oxytocin used in research studies is often given in International Units (IU) rather than milligrams (mg) or micrograms (mcg). However, it’s worth noting that one IU of Oxytocin is equivalent to about two micrograms (mcg).
For example, the intranasal administration of 24 International Units (IU) equals 48mcg, and the intranasal administration of 40IU is similar to 80mcg. Some studies have used higher doses of up to 80IU, equivalent to 160mcg. In clinical studies, Oxytocin nasal spray is used at 24IU per spray, equivalent to 48mcg per spray.
It’s essential to remember that these are only estimates, as the amount of Oxytocin per spray can vary depending on the formulation and concentration of the specific product used. It’s also important to note that Oxytocin is a prescription-only medication and should only be used under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. The optimal dosage and administration may vary depending on the individual and the specific condition being treated. Therefore, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional before starting any treatment with Oxytocin.
A study in 2010 used a single dose of 12.5mg of Oxytocin given intravenously to healthy adult participants. Another study in 2018 used a dosage of 10mg given intramuscularly to postpartum women with symptoms of postpartum depression.
References:
- Carter, C. S. (1992). Oxytocin and sexual behavior. Neuron, 9(1), 11-16.
- Kendrick, K. M., & Keverne, E. B. (2002). Oxytocin, motherhood and bonding. Novartis Foundation Symposium, 243, 79-90; discussion 90-4.
- Kosfeld, M., Heinrichs, M., Zak, P. J., Fischbacher, U., & Fehr, E. (2005). Oxytocin increases trust in humans. Nature, 435(7042), 673-676.
- Uvnäs-Moberg, K., Petersson
