Sexual Health
Oxytocin
Nonapeptide hormone central to bonding, arousal and social affiliation.
- Half-life
- ~3–5 minutes IV; intranasal effects last 30–90 minutes.
- Route
- Intranasal, sublingual, intravenous (clinical)
- Storage
- Refrigerate; compounded formulations follow the pharmacy's beyond-use date.
Overview
Oxytocin is a nine-amino-acid neuropeptide synthesised in the hypothalamus and released from the posterior pituitary. Beyond its classical roles in parturition and lactation, it modulates pair-bonding, sexual arousal, orgasm intensity and prosocial behaviour.
Mechanism of action
Agonises the oxytocin receptor (OXTR), a Gq-coupled GPCR expressed in reproductive tissues, hypothalamus, amygdala and nucleus accumbens. Central release modulates dopaminergic reward circuits; peripheral action drives smooth-muscle contraction and vasodilation.
Evidence base
FDA-approved intravenously for labour induction and postpartum haemorrhage. Off-label intranasal use has small trials for autism-related social cognition, anxiety and sexual dysfunction, with mixed but generally favourable arousal and bonding outcomes.
Typical dosing
Compounded intranasal or sublingual troches commonly cite 10–40 IU as needed 30–60 minutes before intimacy. Chronic daily dosing is discouraged due to receptor desensitisation. Open the dose calculator →
Safety & contraindications
Generally well tolerated at low intranasal doses. Higher IV doses can cause hyponatraemia, uterine hyperstimulation and hypotension. Avoid in pregnancy outside obstetric supervision. Cardiovascular caution in patients with QT prolongation.
Featured in protocols
Related peptides
Educational reference only. Nothing on this page is medical advice, a prescription, or an offer to sell. Discuss any peptide therapy with a qualified clinician who can evaluate your history and monitoring needs.