Oxytocin vs Exenatide
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 →Exenatide
Exenatide was the first GLP-1 receptor agonist approved in the US, derived from a compound found in Gila monster saliva. Available as Byetta (twice daily) and Bydureon (once weekly extended-release).
Full details →Side-by-Side Comparison
| Aspect | Oxytocin | Exenatide |
|---|---|---|
| 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. | Synthetic version of exendin-4, which activates GLP-1 receptors to enhance glucose-dependent insulin secretion, suppress glucagon, slow gastric emptying, and promote satiety. |
| Typical Dosage | Intranasal: 20-40 IU (international units) for social/anxiolytic effects. Clinical uses (labor induction) require IV administration under medical supervision. | Byetta: 5mcg twice daily for 1 month, then 10mcg twice daily. Bydureon: 2mg subcutaneously once weekly. |
| Administration | Intranasal spray for behavioral effects. IV only in clinical settings. Sublingual also possible. Best used situationally rather than continuously. | Byetta: Inject within 60 minutes before morning and evening meals. Bydureon: Any time of day, with or without meals. Do not mix with insulin in same syringe. |
| Side Effects | Intranasal: headache, nasal irritation, drowsiness. May cause over-attachment or emotional sensitivity. IV (clinical): uterine hyperstimulation, water retention. | Nausea (especially initially), vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, headache, and injection site reactions (particularly with Bydureon). |
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