Oxytocin vs Noopept
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 →Noopept
Noopept (N-phenylacetyl-L-prolylglycine ethyl ester) is a peptide-derived nootropic developed in Russia. While technically a dipeptide prodrug rather than a true peptide, it's often discussed alongside peptide nootropics.
Full details →Side-by-Side Comparison
| Aspect | Oxytocin | Noopept |
|---|---|---|
| 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. | Metabolized to cycloprolylglycine which modulates AMPA and NMDA receptors, increases NGF and BDNF expression, and provides neuroprotective effects through antioxidant mechanisms. |
| Typical Dosage | Intranasal: 20-40 IU (international units) for social/anxiolytic effects. Clinical uses (labor induction) require IV administration under medical supervision. | Oral: 10-30mg daily, typically divided into 2-3 doses. Sublingual use may enhance absorption. Some users go higher but effects may plateau. |
| Administration | Intranasal spray for behavioral effects. IV only in clinical settings. Sublingual also possible. Best used situationally rather than continuously. | Oral or sublingual administration. Unlike most peptides, it's orally bioavailable. Can be taken with or without food. |
| Side Effects | Intranasal: headache, nasal irritation, drowsiness. May cause over-attachment or emotional sensitivity. IV (clinical): uterine hyperstimulation, water retention. | Headache (often from choline depletion), irritability, insomnia if taken late, and occasional brain fog during initial use. |
| Best For |
What They Have in Common
Both Oxytocin and Noopept are commonly used for: