Oxytocin

What is oxytocin for PTSD?

Oxytocin is a neuromodulatory neuropeptide that is important for processing emotional stimuli in a social context. It is known for its role in facilitating trust and attachment between individuals as well as its involvement in behaviours such as mother-infant bonding, theory of mind, and empathic abilities. The impact of oxytocin may be moderated by features of the social environment or individual differences.

What is the evidence on oxytocin for PTSD?

Moderate to low quality evidence found intranasal oxytocin may enhance cognitive and empathic abilities but has no effect on PTSD symptoms. Intranasal oxytocin may be effective for the regulation of sympathetic nervous tone and cortisol reactivity.

August 2021

Image: ©M-SUR- stock.adobe.com

Last updated at: 3:52 am, 15th October 2021
To view documentation related to this topic download the files below
Fact Sheet Technical Commentary

NeuRA Libraries

Title Colour Legend:
Green - Topic summary is available.
Orange - Topic summary is being compiled.
Red - Topic summary has no current systematic review available.