oxytocin

[ ok-si-toh-suhn ]

noun

1. Biochemistry. a polypeptide hormone, produced by the posterior lobe of the pituitary gland, that stimulates contraction of the smooth muscle of the uterus.
2. Pharmacology. a commercial form of this substance, obtained from beef and hog pituitary glands or especially by synthesis, and used chiefly in obstetrics to induce labor and to control postnatal hemorrhage.

oxytocin

/ ˌɒksɪˈtəʊsɪn /

noun

1. a polypeptide hormone, secreted by the pituitary gland, that stimulates contractions of the uterus or oviduct and ejection of milk in mammals; alphahypophame: used therapeutically for aiding childbirth. Formula: C 43 H 68 N 12 O 12 S 2 Compare vasopressin

oxytocin

/ ŏk′sĭ-tō′sĭn /

1. A polypeptide hormone secreted by the posterior portion of the pituitary gland. Oxytocin stimulates the contraction of smooth muscle of the uterus during childbirth and facilitates ejection of milk from the mammary glands.

Word History and Origins

Origin of oxytocin¹

First recorded in 1925–30; oxytoc(ic) + -in ²

Example Sentences

This new therapeutic approach targets oxytocin receptors in the gut.

From Science Daily

University of Queensland researchers have developed a new class of oral painkillers to suppress chronic abdominal pain that is based on the peptide hormone oxytocin that drives childbirth contractions.

From Science Daily

This system is largely regulated by the so-called “love hormone” oxytocin.

From Salon

The putative “cuddle hormone,” oxytocin, has been found to not only facilitate group bonding but also, as a result, make killing those in enemy groups less troubling.

From Salon

Even as adults, humans and dogs still experience a rush of oxytocin — the so-called "love hormone" — when they make sustained eye contact with other individuals they care about.

From Salon