Oxytocin Acetate OT
Neurohypophysial hormone
Nine-amino-acid neurohypophysial peptide hormone acting on oxytocin receptors, studied in uterine contraction, milk ejection and social behaviour.
Evidence level. Published human clinical data exists, from trials or approved use. About the badges
- Class
- Neurohypophysial hormone
- Category
- Reproductive & Endocrine
- Type
- Single compound
- Abbreviation
- OT
- Development and regulatory status
- Approved prescription drug (obstetric uses)
What researchers study
Nine-amino-acid neurohypophysial peptide hormone that acts on oxytocin receptors in the uterus, mammary gland and brain. It is studied for uterine contraction, milk ejection and social-behaviour signalling.
Research areas
- Uterine contraction and lactation physiology
- Social-behaviour and empathy research
- Autism trial meta-analyses
- Oxytocin signalling in grief and bonding models
Reported findings
Summaries of published results. Each one is tagged with the type of study behind it. They describe research outcomes and are not claims about any product. Why study type matters.
- review
A 2026 review reported modest, context-dependent effects of intranasal oxytocin on empathy (d = 0.24, 95% CI 0.02-0.46)
- meta-analysis
A 2026 meta-analysis of 12 randomised trials (733 participants) in autism found no significant pooled effect of intranasal oxytocin on core social symptoms
