How the ‘Love Hormone’ Oxytocin May Influence Autism?

Oxytocin, often called the “love hormone,” plays an important role in social interaction and bonding. Research reveals that oxytocin may also play a role in managing the social deficits often seen in people with autism spectrum disorder .

Oxytocin is a hormone., It is released during activities like hugging, touching and orgasm. Oxytocin promotes feelings of trust, intimacy and attachment between people. It facilitates social interaction and recognition of emotions in facial expressions and tone of voice.

People with ASD often have difficulties with social interaction, communication and forming relationships. Research has found lower levels of oxytocin in people with ASD compared to those who are neurotypical. Studies have also found that administering oxytocin through nasal spray can temporarily improve some social symptoms in people with ASD, at least in controlled settings.

However, oxytocin is a complex hormone that affects many different brain functions and behaviors. It’s not yet clear exactly how oxytocin influences social deficits in people with ASD. Oxytocin likely interacts with other neurotransmitter systems in the brain that are also disrupted in autism.

While more research is needed, the link between oxytocin and autism suggests that treatments targeting this hormone system may eventually help improve social function for some people with ASD. Oxytocin-based therapies could be used in combination with other interventions like behavior therapy and social skills training. But large, long-term studies are still needed to determine whether oxytocin treatments are effective and safe when used regularly over time.