Oxytocin (Pitocin)

The hormone behind labor contractions and breastfeeding. FDA-approved by IV for labor; nasal sprays are studied for social behavior and appetite.

Evidence: Extensive clinical research
Half-life: Minutes
Sources: 3 cited

Is oxytocin FDA-approved?

FDA-approved as an injection for labor. Nasal forms aren't FDA-approved in the US.

Overview

Oxytocin is made in the hypothalamus. As a drug (Pitocin) it's given by IV to start or strengthen labor and to control bleeding after birth. Nasal oxytocin has been studied for autism, anxiety, appetite and weight. Results have mostly been small or inconsistent; a large trial in children with autism found no benefit over placebo.

How it works

It binds oxytocin receptors in the uterus (contractions), breast (milk let-down) and brain (bonding, stress and appetite signals).

How long does oxytocin stay in the body?

A few minutes in the blood (about 1–6 minutes).

What it's studied for

Labor and bleeding after birth
Autism and social behavior
Appetite and obesity

Reported side effects

Overly strong contractions (in labor)
Water retention and low sodium at high IV doses
Nasal irritation, headache (nasal spray)

Sources

The studies and prescribing labels this page is written from.