OXYTOCIN – Help for Social Interaction, Sexual Function, Autism Spectrum Disorder and Migraine?
Oxytocin is a hormone that is released during labor and breastfeeding. It has also been associated with sexual arousal, giving it the nickname the “love hormone.” Oxytocin has the capacity to shape human social behavior ranging from pair bonding and sexual activity to autism and parental behaviors. Oxytocin induces a general sense of well-being including calm, improved social interactions, increased trust, and reduced fear. Therefore, oxytocin can potentially be used to enhance interpersonal relationships and individual well-being, and might have more applications in neuropsychiatric disorders especially those characterized by persistent fear, repetitive behavior, reduced trust and avoidance of social interactions.
Researchers at the University of California, San Diego Medical Center published a case report of a male treated with a course of intranasal oxytocin for social anxiety. The patient had significant, broad-spectrum improvements in sexual function, including libido, erection, and orgasm; and oxytocin was well tolerated. Also, another report presented the case of a man who was unable to have an orgasm, but who was successfully treated with administration of intranasal oxytocin during intercourse.
In autism, there are 3 core deficits — social communication, repetitive behavior, and fixated or restricted interest. Patients with autistic spectrum disorder (ASD) show secondary disabilities such as irritability and aggressive behavior. Studies have shown that blood levels of oxytocin are lower in children with ASD. In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover study, a total of 32 individuals (all males, average age 13), oxytocin appeared to normalize core deficits in ASD.
A single-dose, placebo-controlled, double-blind study found intranasal oxytocin to be safe and highly effective in the management of chronic migraine. Compared with a placebo, intranasal oxytocin decreased the percentage of patients with nausea and sensitivity to light and sound.
Studies have shown no difference in side effects between intranasal oxytocin and a placebo.
Our compounding pharmacy can prepare oxytocin as a nasal spray or a sublingual dosage form. Your questions are welcome.
Copyright 2013, Storey Marketing. All rights reserved. Questions regarding this article should be directed to the compounding professionals at Lloyd Center Pharmacy.
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