Can I Take Oxytocin Daily? A Review of Safety and Uses

October 12, 2025 •

5 min read

Some research indicates that daily administration of intranasal oxytocin has resulted in few adverse effects, with dosages in studies ranging from 18 to 40 IU [1.4.1, 1.4.2]. The question, 'Can I take oxytocin daily?' is complex, as its use outside of approved medical settings is investigational.

Quick Summary

Daily oxytocin use is being studied for conditions like social anxiety and depression, but long-term effects are not fully known. While some trials show benefits, it is not FDA-approved for these purposes and requires medical supervision.

Key Points

Not FDA-Approved for Daily Use: Synthetic oxytocin is only FDA-approved for specific medical uses during childbirth and postpartum care, not for daily supplementation [1.9.3].
Investigational Status: Daily use of oxytocin nasal spray or sublingual tablets is off-label and being investigated for conditions like social anxiety, autism, and depression, with mixed results [1.7.1, 1.6.1].
Unknown Long-Term Risks: The long-term safety of daily oxytocin use has not been established, and there are concerns about potential hormonal and psychological effects [1.3.2].
Context-Dependent Effects: Oxytocin's impact can be unpredictable, sometimes enhancing negative social perceptions instead of positive ones [1.7.2].
Medical Supervision is Essential: Due to the potential risks and lack of regulation for off-label use, taking oxytocin daily should only be done under the strict supervision of a healthcare provider [1.2.2].
Natural Alternatives Exist: Oxytocin levels can be naturally boosted through activities like physical touch, social bonding, exercise, and certain relaxation techniques [1.8.2].
Dosage Varies in Studies: Clinical studies on daily intranasal use have often used doses ranging from 24-40 IU per day [1.2.1, 1.4.3].

What is Oxytocin?

Oxytocin is a hormone produced in the hypothalamus and released by the pituitary gland [1.7.1]. It plays a crucial role in childbirth and breastfeeding [1.9.1]. During labor, it stimulates uterine contractions, and after birth, it facilitates the milk let-down reflex [1.11.1, 1.9.3]. Because it is also released during social bonding activities like hugging or cuddling, it has earned the nickname the "love hormone" or "cuddle drug" [1.5.2, 1.7.2]. Beyond its primary functions, oxytocin influences a wide range of social behaviors, including trust, empathy, and social connection, which has led to a surge in research on its therapeutic potential [1.5.2, 1.6.1].

FDA-Approved Medical Uses

The primary FDA-approved uses for synthetic oxytocin (often known by the brand name Pitocin) are strictly within obstetric settings [1.9.3]. It is administered intravenously or intramuscularly to:

Induce or augment labor: When medically necessary, oxytocin can be used to start or strengthen uterine contractions [1.9.1].
Control postpartum hemorrhage: After delivery of the placenta, it helps the uterus contract firmly to prevent or control excessive bleeding [1.9.2, 1.9.3].
Manage incomplete or inevitable miscarriage: It can be used as an adjunctive therapy to help the uterus expel tissue after certain types of miscarriages [1.9.1].

It is critical to note that in these approved settings, oxytocin is administered by healthcare professionals who closely monitor the mother and baby for adverse effects [1.2.2].

The Rise of Off-Label and Investigational Use

The question, "Can I take oxytocin daily?" stems from its growing off-label and investigational use, primarily through intranasal sprays or sublingual troches [1.2.3, 1.7.1]. These formulations are being studied for a wide array of conditions related to mental health and social behavior [1.7.1]. The FDA has not approved oxytocin for these uses, meaning its safety and efficacy for these purposes are not yet established [1.2.3].

Some of the key areas of research include:

Social and Anxiety Disorders: Studies have explored using oxytocin to alleviate symptoms of social anxiety disorder, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and even schizophrenia [1.5.2, 1.6.1]. The theory is that by modulating brain regions involved in social processing, oxytocin might improve social cognition and reduce anxiety [1.6.2]. However, results have been mixed. Some studies show temporary improvements in social behaviors, while others find limited clinical significance or even paradoxical effects, such as increased suspicion in individuals with borderline personality disorder [1.6.1, 1.7.2].
Depression and Stress Reduction: Oxytocin can counteract cortisol, the body's primary stress hormone, leading to a calmer state and improved mood [1.5.1]. Some long-term studies of intranasal oxytocin have noted improvements in symptoms of depression [1.2.1].
Sexual Dysfunction: Research suggests oxytocin may improve sexual function, desire, and satisfaction in both men and women [1.2.1, 1.2.3]. It has been studied for conditions like hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) [1.2.3].

Daily Oxytocin Use: Safety and Long-Term Effects

There is no consensus on the safety of long-term daily oxytocin use, and research is ongoing [1.3.2]. Most studies have involved short-term administration, typically for a few weeks to a few months. A review of studies using doses between 18-40 IU found no significant side effects compared to placebo in controlled, short-term research settings [1.4.1]. Another study involving four weeks of daily intranasal oxytocin (24 IU) in older men found it to be safe and well-tolerated [1.4.4].

However, the long-term effects remain largely unknown and warrant caution [1.3.2]. Some potential risks and concerns include:

Unpredictable Psychological Effects: The effects of oxytocin can be highly dependent on context and individual personality [1.6.2]. While it may enhance positive social feelings in some, it can amplify negative social cues or feelings of distress in others [1.7.2].
Potential for Hormonal Imbalance: Long-term administration could potentially alter the body's natural oxytocin system [1.3.5]. Long-term use in men is not recommended by some due to the risk of prostate gland enlargement [1.5.2, 1.4.5].
Physical Side Effects: While often mild, reported side effects include headache, nausea, and vomiting [1.5.2]. More serious side effects seen with high-dose intravenous use, such as changes in heart rate, water intoxication, or uterine hyperstimulation, are less likely with typical intranasal doses but highlight the hormone's powerful physiological effects [1.2.2, 1.5.3].


Feature	Approved (IV/IM) Use	Investigational (Nasal/Sublingual) Use
Primary Purpose	Induce labor, control postpartum bleeding [1.9.3]	Treat psychiatric and behavioral conditions [1.5.2]
Administration Setting	Hospital, under medical supervision [1.2.2]	Often self-administered at home [1.4.4]
FDA Approval	Yes, for specific obstetric indications [1.9.3]	No, it is considered off-label use [1.2.3, 1.7.1]
Dosage Form	Injection or intravenous infusion [1.2.2]	Nasal spray, sublingual tablets/troches [1.2.3, 1.7.1]
Known Risks	Uterine hyperstimulation, fetal distress, water intoxication [1.2.2, 1.3.4]	Long-term effects unknown; potential psychological and hormonal changes [1.3.2]

Natural Ways to Boost Oxytocin

For those interested in the benefits of oxytocin without resorting to supplementation, there are many natural ways to increase its levels:

Positive Physical Touch: Hugging, cuddling, holding hands, and massage all stimulate oxytocin release [1.8.2].
Social Connection: Spending quality time with friends, family, and pets can boost oxytocin [1.8.2]. Even making eye contact with a dog has been shown to raise levels [1.8.3].
Acts of Kindness and Laughter: Engaging in altruistic behaviors or sharing a good laugh stimulates brain regions associated with oxytocin [1.8.2].
Relaxation Techniques: Activities like yoga, meditation, listening to music, and mindful breathing can promote relaxation and increase oxytocin [1.8.1, 1.8.2].
Diet: Certain nutrients are co-factors in oxytocin production or receptor function, including Vitamin C, Vitamin D, and Magnesium. Foods rich in these include citrus fruits, fatty fish, nuts, and leafy greens [1.8.3, 1.8.4].

Conclusion

So, can you take oxytocin daily? While some clinical studies have explored daily administration for specific investigational purposes with relatively few short-term side effects, it is not an FDA-approved practice for general use [1.4.2, 1.7.3]. The long-term effects on the brain and body are not well understood, and the psychological impact can be unpredictable [1.3.2]. Daily use of oxytocin, especially without medical guidance, carries potential risks. Anyone considering oxytocin for off-label purposes must consult with a healthcare professional to weigh the uncertain benefits against the known and unknown risks. For most people, pursuing natural methods of boosting this powerful hormone remains the safest and most reliable approach to harnessing its benefits for well-being and social connection.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before starting any new medication or supplement.

Link: Oxytocin in the Treatment of Psychiatric Disorders - PMC

Frequently Asked Questions

While high-dose oxytocin (Pitocin) requires a prescription, lower-dose oxytocin-like sprays may be available over-the-counter as supplements, but they are not FDA-approved for medical treatment [1.7.2]. Prescription oxytocin for off-label uses is prescribed by some physicians through compounding pharmacies [1.2.1, 1.2.3].

In short-term studies, side effects are often mild and similar to a placebo, but can include headache, nausea, lightheadedness, or dry mouth [1.4.1, 1.4.2, 1.5.2]. The long-term side effects are not well understood [1.3.2].

Oxytocin is not considered an addictive substance. It does not produce a 'high' in the way addictive drugs do [1.7.2].

Men can and have taken oxytocin in clinical trials, particularly for studying social behavior and cardiovascular health [1.5.1, 1.4.4]. However, some sources advise against long-term use in men due to a potential risk of prostate gland enlargement [1.5.2, 1.4.5].

For its approved medical uses in childbirth, oxytocin is injected into a muscle or given as an IV infusion [1.2.2]. For off-label investigational uses, it is most commonly administered as a nasal spray or a sublingual tablet that dissolves under the tongue [1.2.3, 1.7.1].

Having low oxytocin levels is rare but has been linked to depressive symptoms and difficulties with social bonding [1.11.1]. In specific medical conditions like hypopituitarism, it may be associated with deficits in cognitive empathy, anxiety, and even poor bone health [1.11.2, 1.11.3].

While oxytocin is nicknamed the 'love hormone' for its role in social bonding, using it as a supplement to improve your social life is not recommended without medical supervision. Its effects can be complex and unpredictable, and natural methods of boosting oxytocin are a safer alternative [1.7.2, 1.8.2].