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AestheticIntranasal
Oxytocin
Also known as: Pitocin · Syntocinon · OXT
Nine-amino-acid neuropeptide produced by the supraoptic and paraventricular hypothalamic nuclei. Modulates pair-bonding, social cognition, stress reactivity, and orgasmic response. Intranasal dosing penetrates CNS at low efficiency; subq dosing acts primarily peripherally.
At a glance
- Half-life
- 3 minutes
- Common route
- Intranasal
- Typical dose range
- 8–40mcg
- Stability (reconstituted)
- 14days refrigerated
Best timing
Intranasal 10–40 IU 30–60 minutes before intended social or intimate use. Avoid daily use — receptor desensitization develops within weeks.
Contraindications
- Pregnancy outside obstetric medical supervision
- Cardiovascular disease
- Hyponatremia or fluid overload conditions
- Hypersensitivity
Watch symptoms
- Mild nasal irritation
- Headache
- Emotional volatility — increased sensitivity to both positive and negative social cues
- Hyponatremia at very high doses
- Receptor desensitization with chronic use
Citations