MOLECULAR INFORMATION
Molecular information
- Weight
- 1,007.2 Da
- Length
- 10 amino acids
- Type
- Endogenous nonapeptide hormone · uterine smooth-muscle contraction, milk let-down
- Formula
- C₄₃H₆₆N₁₂O₁₂S₂
Amino acid sequence
Cys-Tyr-Ile-Gln-Asn-Cys-Pro-Leu-Gly-NH₂ (disulfide bridge) Oxytocin is an endogenous nonapeptide hormone with a long-established authorised use in obstetrics — labour induction, postpartum haemorrhage control — under brands including Pitocin (US) and Syntocinon (EU). Listed in the peptidepedia registry because of secondary off-label and research uses (autism research, intranasal social-cognition trials) that attract grey-market interest.
Authorised uses
- Induction or augmentation of labour
- Postpartum haemorrhage prevention and management
- Lactation promotion (specific formulations)
Why we grade it S
Authorised by the EMA, FDA, MHRA and Swissmedic for the obstetric indications since the 1950s. Standard of care for labour induction across the EU. The research / off-label social-cognition use is investigational and would warrant a separate grade if and when a distinct indication is sought.
Frequently asked questions
- What is Oxytocin used for?
- A standard-of-care obstetric drug for labour induction or augmentation, prevention and management of postpartum haemorrhage, and (in specific formulations) lactation promotion. Authorised since the 1950s in all major markets.
- Is Oxytocin sold over the counter?
- No — it's a prescription-only medicine, administered by clinicians in obstetric settings. Intranasal "oxytocin nasal spray" sold online for autism / social-cognition claims is unauthorised and not the obstetric medication.
- Who makes Oxytocin?
- The molecule is off-patent and produced by many manufacturers. Pitocin (US) is owned by Endo / Par; Syntocinon (EU) is owned by Novartis / Sigma-Tau. Generics are widely available.
- Can Oxytocin be used for autism or social cognition?
- This is investigational — intranasal oxytocin has been studied in autism, social anxiety, and PTSD research for two decades, but no formulation has been authorised for any psychiatric indication. The obstetric authorisation is unrelated.
- How is Oxytocin dosed for labour induction?
- Continuous intravenous infusion starting at 1–2 milliunits per minute, titrated upward based on uterine contraction response. Strict monitoring is required to avoid hyperstimulation.