Oxytocin, often referred to as the ‘social hormone,’ has been a focal point in autism research due to its potential role in social interactions. Produced primarily in the hypothalamus, oxytocin plays various roles in the brain and body, such as promoting trust, moderating responses to threats, and facilitating mother-child bonding and lactation. Some studies have suggested that autistic children may have lower blood levels of oxytocin, impacting their social skills. However, the relationship between oxytocin and autism is complex, as not all autistic individuals exhibit low oxytocin levels or altered oxytocin receptors.

Clinical trials investigating the use of intranasal oxytocin as an autism therapy have yielded mixed results. While some studies have shown improvements in social behaviors, others have not, possibly due to variations in measurement tools, the inability of intranasal oxytocin to reach relevant brain regions, or the necessity of combining oxytocin treatment with behavioral therapies to maximize its benefits. As a result, the exact dosage, duration, and target population for oxytocin therapy in autism remain uncertain.