Nasal Oxytocin Demonstrates Potential for Alleviating Dementia Symptoms

Recent research suggests that a straightforward nasal spray infused with oxytocin, often referred to as the “love hormone,” may assist in alleviating symptoms of apathy that frequently afflict individuals diagnosed with a form of early-onset dementia.

Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) is a prevalent type of early-onset dementia that impacts individuals aged between 40 and 65. This condition primarily affects the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain, resulting in difficulties with language, behavior, and decision-making abilities.

Apathy, a common symptom, leads to a noticeable disinterest in hobbies and social distancing from family and friends.

To date, no definitive treatments have been established for the common symptoms of FTD, including apathy.

Trial Findings

The randomized, controlled phase 2 trial, recognized as the largest of its kind for FTD according to researchers, indicated that the administration of oxytocin resulted in modest enhancements in apathy symptoms, potentially facilitating patients’ involvement in daily activities and interpersonal relationships.

This study was conducted across 11 sites in Canada and the United States from 2018 to 2023 and included 74 participants. Those in the treatment group received two daily doses of oxytocin spray every third day over a period of six weeks.

Related Stories

The study employed a questionnaire to evaluate levels of apathy across 12 neuropsychiatric symptoms. Findings indicated that those receiving oxytocin exhibited a mild improvement in apathy symptoms compared to participants given a placebo.

Care partners noted that patients engaged in activities they might have previously overlooked, such as reaching out to family members or preparing coffee. “Even these small gestures can greatly impact,” remarked co-lead study author Kristy Coleman, research operations lead at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry, in the press release. “If you’re married to someone who may not express interest in you or your health, these little signs are very meaningful.”

The results were recently published in The Lancet Neurology.

The ‘Love Hormone’

Oxytocin, frequently called the “love hormone,” plays a key role in social bonding, emotional regulation, and motivation, according to Dr. Michael Genovese, chief medical officer of behavioral health at Access TeleCare, who wasn’t involved in the study.

This hormone is synthesized in the hypothalamus and released into various regions of the brain, including the amygdala and prefrontal cortex, where it is crucial for emotional processing and forming social ties.

“In frontotemporal dementia, one of the most prevalent and challenging symptoms is apathy, leading patients to become disengaged from activities, loved ones, and even their self-care,” he remarked.

Nonetheless, Genovese warned that studies in this area are still in the nascent stage, necessitating further investigation to verify how effective and enduring these effects could be.

Potential Risks and Side Effects

While oxytocin is naturally produced in the body, its use for medical purposes is not without risks, Genovese noted. Side effects may include nausea, headaches, or mild allergic reactions. In some cases, oxytocin could exacerbate negative emotions.

The response of FTD patients to oxytocin treatment remains a concern.

“Given that FTD alters brain function in complex ways, responses may vary among patients,” he explained, adding that limited research on the long-term effects of oxytocin in neurodegenerative diseases implies that its safety profile is still under examination.

“Due to these uncertainties, oxytocin should only be utilized under strict medical supervision to monitor potential adverse reactions,” Genovese advised.

Other Sources of Support

During discussions with care partners involved in this study, many reported observable changes in patient behavior following the trial, such as initiating calls to family members or making coffee for their spouse spontaneously.

A “care partner” in FTD treatment refers to a spouse, family member, or close friend who actively supports a person diagnosed with FTD. They are responsible for overseeing daily tasks, providing emotional support, and facilitating communication with healthcare providers.

Patients living with dementia often find it challenging to partake in social activities, maintain routines, or ask for assistance when necessary.

“Family members, caregivers, and support networks are vital in helping preserve the patient’s quality of life,” Genovese added.

“Should oxytocin demonstrate efficacy as a treatment,” he suggested, “care partners could be instrumental in reinforcing its benefits—encouraging the patient to incorporate social interactions into their daily lives and ensuring ongoing engagement.”

Given that FTD is a progressive condition, the approach to treatment must encompass more than just medication, Genovese explained.

A combination of structured medical care, behavioral strategies, and active caregiver involvement is “essential” for aiding patients in symptom management and maintaining their optimal quality of life, he mentioned.

“Caring for a person with FTD is not solely about the patient, but also about the support system surrounding them,” he concluded. “Care partners offer the continuity, motivation, and structure necessary to effectively navigate this challenging illness.”

Both Coleman and Finger underscored the necessity of additional research in FTD treatment.

They noted that this research is the culmination of 15 years devoted to discovering effective interventions for FTD patients and their caregivers. Finger emphasized the importance of the study: “This marks an exciting advancement in identifying specific treatments for neuropsychiatric symptoms associated with FTD.”