Oxytocin vs SHLP2
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 →SHLP2
SHLP2 (Small Humanin-Like Peptide 2) is a mitochondrial-derived peptide similar to humanin. It has shown insulin-sensitizing and cytoprotective effects in research, with potential metabolic benefits.
Full details →Side-by-Side Comparison
| Aspect | Oxytocin | SHLP2 |
|---|---|---|
| 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. | Enhances insulin sensitivity and glucose uptake. Provides cytoprotective effects similar to humanin. May act through similar but distinct receptor pathways. |
| Typical Dosage | Intranasal: 20-40 IU (international units) for social/anxiolytic effects. Clinical uses (labor induction) require IV administration under medical supervision. | Research compound with doses in the microgram to low milligram range studied in animal models. Human dosing not established. |
| Administration | Intranasal spray for behavioral effects. IV only in clinical settings. Sublingual also possible. Best used situationally rather than continuously. | Subcutaneous or intraperitoneal injection in research settings. Various SHLP analogs (1-6) have different properties. |
| Side Effects | Intranasal: headache, nasal irritation, drowsiness. May cause over-attachment or emotional sensitivity. IV (clinical): uterine hyperstimulation, water retention. | Limited data. Animal studies suggest good tolerability. May affect glucose metabolism. |
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