Hormonal Regulation FDA Approved

Oxytocin

Also known as: Ocitocina

Molecular Identifiers

Molecular Formula

C43H66N12O12S2

PubChem CID

439302

Molecular Weight

1007.19 Da

Overview

Cyclic hormonal neuropeptide with a disulfide bond. Naturally produced in the hypothalamus and released by the neurohypophysis. Researched for its effects on social bonding, anxiolytic properties, uterine contraction, and milk ejection.

Approved by the FDA as Pitocin for labor induction and augmentation and postpartum hemorrhage control. Used clinically for decades as the reference uterotonic agent.

Sequence (1 letter): CYIQNCPLG
Extended notation: Cys-Tyr-Ile-Gln-Asn-Cys-Pro-Leu-Gly

Half-life

~3-5 minutes (IV), ~20 min (intranasal)

Administration Route

Intranasal or subcutaneous

Category

Hormonal Regulation

Mechanism of Action

  • Oxytocin receptor (OXTR) agonism
  • Promotion of social bonding and interpersonal trust
  • Anxiolytic effect via amygdala modulation
  • Stimulation of uterine contractions
  • Breast milk ejection (let-down reflex)
  • Modulation of the HPA axis and stress response

Dosage Protocol

Data compiled from the literature. This does not constitute medical advice.

Parameter Value
Dose 10-40 IU intranasal or 50-200 mcg subcutaneous
Frequency 1-2 times daily
Timing According to research protocol
Duration As needed or 2-4 weeks in research

Reported Side Effects

Adverse effects described in the literature. Severity and frequency vary between individuals.

  • Headache
  • Nausea
  • Tachycardia
  • Hypotension
  • Flushing

Presentations & Preparation

Vials of Oxytocin found in the research market:

10 mg15 mg20 mg

Reconstitution

  • Diluent: Bacteriostatic water
  • Volume: 1 ml per vial
  • Inject the diluent slowly against the vial wall
  • Gently swirl until completely dissolved
  • Never shake

Storage

  • Lyophilized: Refrigerated 2-8°C
  • Reconstituted: Refrigerated 2-8°C (up to 14 days)
  • Protect from direct light
  • Do not freeze after reconstitution
  • Peptide sensitive to degradation - use promptly
Reconstitution Calculator

Scientific Studies

Published studies on Oxytocin.

2005 · Nature

Oxytocin Increases Trust in Humans

Kosfeld M, Heinrichs M, Zak PJ, Fischbacher U, Fehr E
2021 · Sci Rep

Oxytocin Enhances Neural Approach towards Social and Non-Social Stimuli of High Personal Relevance

Alaerts K, Taillieu A, Daniels N, Soriano JR, Prinsen J

Related Peptides

Argipressin

5-20 IU or 1-4 mcg/kg · As clinically needed

Cetrorelix

0.25-3 mg per injection · Once daily (0.25 mg) or single dose (3 mg)

Gonadorelin

100-200 mcg per injection · 2-3 times per week

HCG

250-500 IU per injection · 2-3 times per week

Kisspeptin-10

1-10 mcg per injection · Per research protocol

α-MSH

0.5-2 mg per injection · Once daily or every other day