"Cuddle hormone" oxytocin may provide pain relief and help curb harmful opioid use

A two-year interdisciplinary study at UF examines synthetic oxytocin’s potential as an alternate pain management option for older adults.

In the midst of America’s growing opioid crisis, a much healthier alternative to long-term pain management is emerging — one affectionately known as “the cuddle hormone,” or oxytocin.

University of Florida researchers are currently investigating whether a synthetic version of this naturally-occurring human hormone can be used in conjunction with prescription drugs to help curb opioid addictions, especially in susceptible older adults. An interdisciplinary research team is conducting the two-year study, with $414,375 in funding from the National Institutes of Health, and completion is expected in April 2025.