Tag: Hormone

Did you know that oxytocin is a complex peptide that functions as both a hormone and a neurotransmitter in the brain? This article explains in detail how is oxytocin classified and explores its diverse pharmacological functions and therapeutic uses. [1.5.5]

Although oxytocin is widely recognized as the "love hormone," its standard clinical use involves injections, not pills. This is primarily because its peptide structure makes it vulnerable to rapid breakdown in the digestive system. So, is there a pill form of oxytocin?

Originally identified in the early 20th century by Sir Henry Dale, oxytocin is a peptide hormone also used clinically as a medication. To understand what category of drug is oxytocin, it is essential to distinguish between its natural, endogenous function and its synthetic, exogenous application as a powerful oxytocic agent. This medication is most known for its role in stimulating uterine contractions.

Globally, millions of women receive synthetic oxytocin to induce or augment labor, but most are surprised to learn that this is done via injection or IV, not pills. The truth is that there are no FDA-approved oxytocin pills for medical use, as oral administration is not an effective delivery method for therapeutic purposes.

Contrary to its popular image as the 'love hormone,' research indicates peripartum exposure to synthetic oxytocin may increase the risk of postpartum depression or anxiety by over 30% [1.5.4]. Investigating what are the negative effects of oxytocin reveals a complex and darker side.

Globally, it's estimated that labor induction with oxytocin is used in nearly 10% of deliveries [1.2.4]. But beyond the hospital, a different question emerges: **what is the oral oxytocin prescription?** This form is not FDA-approved but is explored for off-label uses [1.4.1, 1.4.2, 1.2.3].

According to the Cleveland Clinic, the hypothalamus produces oxytocin, but the posterior pituitary gland releases it into the bloodstream, where it acts as a hormone and neurotransmitter. However, when considering medical use, how is oxytocin ingested—or more accurately, administered—is a critical question, as standard oral ingestion is ineffective due to degradation in the gastrointestinal tract. This article details the various effective routes for therapeutic delivery.

While animal studies have shown that meloxicam can decrease testosterone levels, large-scale human studies have produced conflicting results regarding the same effect in men. This raises the critical question: Does meloxicam lower testosterone in people? (26 words)

In the UK, norethisterone is classified as a 'prescription-only medicine' (POM) and is not available for purchase over the counter. This regulation is in place because, as a synthetic hormone, norethisterone can have notable side effects and may not be suitable for all individuals, emphasizing the importance of a medical evaluation for safe use.

Norepinephrine, also known as noradrenaline, acts as both a neurotransmitter and a hormone, playing a vital role in regulating the body's fight-or-flight response. Understanding what is the main purpose of norepinephrine is key to comprehending its widespread effects on alertness, attention, stress, and blood pressure.