Two studies demonstrate biological effects, but no significant change in clinical symptoms.
Oxytocin's effect on social behaviors has been explored in studies of normal individuals, patients with autism spectrum disorders, and schizophrenia patients. Now, two research groups have examined the effect of intranasal oxytocin in patients with schizophrenia, who have deficits in social cognition, empathy, and odor identification.
In a crossover study, 35 schizophrenia patients and 46 normal controls (mean age, 31; about 75% men) took a single dose of oxytocin (24 IU) or placebo and then completed a test that assessed their social perception abilities. The other substance was administered 1 week later. Participants identified relationships involving kinship and intimacy in video clips of real-life interactions. Patients had a lower mean …
Reviewing Author
DisclosuresRoyaltiesTextbook of Traumatic Brain Injury, 2nd and 3rd editions
Editorial BoardsUpToDate; Journal of Neuropsychiatry and Clinical Neuroscience
Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesNorth American Brain Injury Association (Board Member); National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research (Chair of Data Monitoring Safety Board for study of donepezil on cognition after traumatic brain injury)
DisclosuresRoyaltiesTextbook of Traumatic Brain Injury, 2nd and 3rd editions
Editorial BoardsUpToDate; Journal of Neuropsychiatry and Clinical Neuroscience
Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesNorth American Brain Injury Association (Board Member); National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research (Chair of Data Monitoring Safety Board for study of donepezil on cognition after traumatic brain injury)