Oxytocin, known as the "love hormone," facilitates bonding in maternal and romantic relationships and has been investigated as therapy for conditions like autism and depression. Notably, its administration via nasal sprays was initially promising, as it appeared to alter behavior positively. However, recent studies indicate that oxytocin's effects are more nuanced than anticipated, revealing complications in its use for treating social and emotional disorders. The hormone's involvement in childbirth and breastfeeding also highlights its critical role beyond emotional connections.
Oxytocin is often referred to as the "love hormone" or "cuddle hormone", because it promotes bonding and attachment - both between mothers and infants, and in adult romantic relationships.
An important advance for using oxytocin as a medicine was the discovery that nasal sprays could deliver a dose of oxytocin that gained access to the brain, causing changes in behaviour that could be measured experimentally.
Unfortunately, this initial excitement has recently begun to wane, as results from controlled trials have revealed that the effects of oxytocin on human behaviour are more complex and varied than expected.
The action of oxytocin in the brain turns out to be much more subtle and sophisticated than just making cuddles feel good.
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