TREATMENT DATABASE

Oxytocin (Pitocin, Syntocinon) is a hormone produced in the posterior lobe of the pituitary gland. It acts as a neuromodulator and stimulates uterine muscle contraction as well as sensitizing nerves.

Oxytocin is naturally produced in large quantities during childbirth, lactation, in response to certain stressors (hypoglycemia, exercise, hypothermia), and during sexual intercourse. Its most common medical use has been as an aid in stimulating contractions during labor. Oxytocin is also used to control postpartum uterine bleeding. The neurotransmitter dopamine stimulates oxytocin production.

Oxytocin is sometimes referred to as the “love hormone." It produces feelings of calmness, trust and bonding while reducing anxiety and fear, all of which are important emotions to feel while caring for an infant. Oxytocin also has myriad other effects on the body. It reduces blood pressure and cortisol levels, improves pancreas and bowel function, and facilitates microcirculation in the brain. Catecholamines (adrenaline, noradrenaline) inhibit the release of oxytocin.

USES IN ME/CFS: In 1995, Dr. Jorge Flechas suggested that patients with ME/CFS might have a deficiency in oxytocin (CFIDS Chronicle, Spring 1995). Dr. Flechas based his theory on the fact that ME/CFS patients have lower levels of two other hormones, corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) and arginine vasopressin (AVP), which are coexpressed with oxytocin in the same region of the brain. He pointed out that many of the symptoms of ME/CFS (pain, loss of libido, sleep disturbances, low exercise tolerance, circulatory problems, and metabolic disorders) could be generated by oxytocin deficiency.

Several other clinicians, including Dr. Flechas, Dr. Cheney and Dr. Jay Goldstein, have used oxytocin to treat ME/CFS symptoms. They have reported increased stamina, decreased pain, and improved cognitive function in those patients who have used it. In his book, Betrayal by the Brain, Dr. Goldstein also noted a decrease in fibromyalgia pain, anxiety, depression, and perhaps even food allergies.

Dr. Cheney observed dramatic improvement in fatigue, pain, and short-term memory in his ME/CFS patients, which he attributes oxytocin's effects on microcirculation in the brain and deep tissues. Dr. Lapp also notes that oxytocin increases blood flow to the eyes, brain and muscles in ME/CFS patients.

Treatment rating for Oxytocin