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'Cuddle Chemical' Oxytocin Relieves Alcohol Withdrawal

Posted: October 17, 2012 |   Comments

The "love hormone" oxytocin can relieve symptoms of withdrawal in people recovering from alcoholism, according to a small new study.

Research has long suggested that oxytocin - called the "love" or "hug" hormone for its role in social bonding - is a complicated chemical. It is released during orgasm and birth and other bonding moments between lovers or family members, but oxytocin may also help create the unhealthy ties that bind alcoholics and addicts to their drugs of choice.

Indeed, in rodents, oxytocin can successfully fight unpleasant alcohol and heroin withdrawal symptoms. And if given before the addiction even occurs, the hormone may even prevent the development of tolerance and symptoms of physical dependence.

Read more: http://healthland.time.com

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