Oxytocin vs BNP (B-type Natriuretic Peptide)
A detailed comparison to help you understand the differences and choose the right peptide for your research goals.
Oxytocin
Oxytocin is a natural hormone produced in the hypothalamus, often called the 'love hormone' or 'bonding hormone.' It plays key roles in social bonding, childbirth, lactation, and stress regulation.
Full details →BNP (B-type Natriuretic Peptide)
BNP is a cardiac neurohormone released primarily by ventricles in response to volume/pressure overload. It's a major biomarker for heart failure and has therapeutic applications as nesiritide.
Full details →Side-by-Side Comparison
| Aspect | Oxytocin | BNP (B-type Natriuretic Peptide) |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | Binds to oxytocin receptors in the brain and peripheral tissues. Promotes social bonding, reduces anxiety and stress response, and has various peripheral effects on smooth muscle contraction. | Similar to ANP - activates NPR-A receptors to produce vasodilation, natriuresis, and RAAS suppression. Released in response to ventricular wall stress. |
| Typical Dosage | Intranasal: 20-40 IU (international units) for social/anxiolytic effects. Clinical uses (labor induction) require IV administration under medical supervision. | Nesiritide (recombinant BNP): 2mcg/kg IV bolus followed by 0.01mcg/kg/min continuous infusion for acute decompensated heart failure. |
| Administration | Intranasal spray for behavioral effects. IV only in clinical settings. Sublingual also possible. Best used situationally rather than continuously. | Intravenous administration only. Used in acute care settings for heart failure. BNP levels also used diagnostically. |
| Side Effects | Intranasal: headache, nasal irritation, drowsiness. May cause over-attachment or emotional sensitivity. IV (clinical): uterine hyperstimulation, water retention. | Hypotension (common and dose-limiting), headache, nausea, and potential renal function worsening in some patients. |
| Best For |