Could 'love hormone' help drug addicts stay clean?

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           https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2017/04/170412091228.htmhttps://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2017/04/170412091228.htm
          This article suggested that oxytocin, a hormone of the brain linked to childbirth and breastfeeding as well as effects on social behavior and emotion, could be helpful for preventing relapse among addicts. The research suggests that oxytocin which has an anti-anxiety effect could be an important component to the treatment of addictions such as opioid. The researchers reviewed all the published evidence on oxytocin and the benefits that social support programs such as AA and NA to further their claim for the use of oxytocin in effective preventative therapy. The article indicates the need for more clinical studies on the topic.

            Despite the fact that the research was only based on reviewing previously published research I find the connection to be compelling and worth further investigation. It makes sense to me based on what I know about addictions that pro social behaviors, such as being apart of a support group, can prove to be very effective in preventing relapse. I can imagine that suffering from an addiction can be a very isolating experience met with feelings of not feeling understood, which can sometimes trigger further drug use. It makes sense that finding a community of people that you feel connected and relate to can be instrumental for staying clean.

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