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Oxytocin
Sexual HealthSingleA 9-amino-acid neuropeptide produced in the hypothalamus, involved in social bonding, intimacy, lactation, and uterine contractions.
Half-life
0.1 h
Common dose
10 – 40 IU
Dosing frequency
As Needed
Administration
Intranasal, Subcutaneous
How it works
Oxytocin binds the oxytocin receptor in the brain and peripheral tissues, modulating prosocial behavior, bonding, and reproductive smooth-muscle contraction.
Protocol notes
Off-label intranasal protocols use 10–40 IU per dose as-needed for social/intimacy applications. Subcutaneous routes are less common. Clinical use is mostly obstetric.
Reported side effects
Nasal irritation (intranasal), nausea, headache, water retention with high doses, mood changes.