Structure · schematic
Peptide chain of 9 amino acids · Neuropeptid
Sequence
Cys-Tyr-Ile-Gln-Asn-Cys-Pro-Leu-Gly-NH₂ (Disulfid 1–6)
Schematic representation of the amino acid chain — not a chemical structural formula. Each node represents one amino acid.
Research areas*
* Contexts in which the peptide has been scientifically studied — not assured or recommended effects.
Mechanism of action
- Oxytocin is a cyclic nonapeptide produced in the hypothalamus and released via the neurohypophysis.
- Peripherally it acts at oxytocin receptors of the uterus (labour) and the mammary gland (milk ejection).
- In the central nervous system it is investigated in the context of social behaviour, bonding, trust and stress regulation.
- Its short half-life and limited passage of the blood–brain barrier are methodologically relevant.
Research status
- Oxytocin has long been approved and established as an obstetric medicine (labour induction, postpartum haemorrhage).
- Basic research describes oxytocin-receptor signalling pathways and their link to behaviour.
- For intranasal use in social cognition and neurodevelopmental disorders the evidence is mixed; a meta-analysis found inconsistent effects.
- Outside the approved obstetric indications, the evidence is limited.
Evidence level
Cited studies
Known risks
- 01Obstetric: overstimulation of uterine activity possible (only under supervision)
- 02Water intoxication/hyponatraemia at high doses (antidiuretic effect)
- 03Blood pressure and heart rate changes
- 04Off-label intranasal use: mixed evidence, safety not established
- 05Nausea, headache possible
Frequently asked questions
What is Oxytocin?
Oxytocin is a cyclic nonapeptide produced in the hypothalamus and released via the neurohypophysis.
What type of peptide is Oxytocin?
Oxytocin belongs to the Neuropeptide class.
Is Oxytocin legal in Germany?
Oxytocin is prescription-only in Germany and may only be obtained with a medical prescription.
Where can I buy Oxytocin?
Peptica sells nothing and names no sources. Oxytocin is "prescription-only" in Germany; obtaining unapproved substances outside clinical studies is illegal and carries quality and safety risks.
Is Oxytocin banned in sport (WADA)?
Oxytocin is currently not on the WADA Prohibited List.
What are the known risks of Oxytocin?
Documented risks include: Obstetric: overstimulation of uterine activity possible (only under supervision); Water intoxication/hyponatraemia at high doses (antidiuretic effect). This is not a complete safety assessment and not medical advice — see the risks section for the full list.
How well researched is Oxytocin?
The evidence is classified as “early clinical studies”. 2 studies are cited on this page.
What is the molecular weight of Oxytocin?
Oxytocin has a molar mass of about 1007.2 Da, with a plasma half-life of ~1–6 minutes.
Which peptides are related to Oxytocin?
Closely related entries: Kisspeptin. A direct side-by-side comparison is available via the compare function.
Related entries
Legal status
Germany
prescription-onlyAustria
prescription-onlySwitzerland
prescription-onlyEU
approved medicineUSA
prescription-onlyCanada
prescription-onlyLegal status varies by country and can change. This is not legal advice.
Sources & methodology
- 2 peer-reviewed studies cited, linked to PubMed where available.
- Molecular data verified against PubChem and primary literature. PubChem CID 439302
- Editorial standard: no dosage guidance, no sources, evidence level stated explicitly.
Last editorially reviewed: 30 May 2026
Important notice
This site is intended solely for factual, scientifically oriented information about peptides. It does not constitute medical advice, does not replace a consultation with a doctor and contains no recommendations for use in humans.
This site does not sell any substances and names no sources for unapproved substances. For medical questions, please consult qualified medical professionals.
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