What is Oxytocin? - Definition, Function & Side Effects

Oxytocin is stored in which portion of the brain?

Posterior pituitary gland

Synthetic Oxytocin

When a womans labor is induced, a synthetic oxytoxin, called pitocon can be given to expectant mothers through an intravenous drip to stimulate labor contractions or make the contractions stronger.

Oxytocin is released into the bloodstream by?

Excited nerve cells

Oxytocin is primarily used for?

Inducing labor contractions

Oxytocin

Naturally occurring hormone that is made in the hypothalamus and released by the porterior pituitary gland in the brain. When released it produces a feeling of love and satisfaction.

How does Oxytocin Work?

Oxytocin is secreted into the bloodstream due to electrical activity of nerve cells when they are active. The hormone works by a positive feedback system, where the more oxytocin is released the more is produced.

Other Implications & Side Effects

Since the hormone is associeted with happy feelings, not having enough has been associeted with social and mood disorders, such as relationship difficulties and depression. Having too much has been linked to disorders of the prostate in men. Tachysystole is when decrease blood flow to the baby causing brain damage or even death if too much Oxytocin is given. Given Oxytocin intravenously for a long period of time can cause side effects like nausea and vomiting. Some more serious, like high blood pressure, abnormal heart rhythms, bleeding in the pelvis and brain, rupture of the uterus and severe allergic reaction (or anaphylaxis). Rare side effect is water intoxication, where using oxytocin causes kidneys to hold onto water, which can lead to a coma or death.

Oxytocin affects which organs in the human body?

Uterus and breast