Autism spectrum disorders have a high frequency of about 100 in 1 people, with the main symptoms being communication disorders in interpersonal situations, stereotyped behaviors and limited interests in which interests and interests tend to be biased and the same behaviors are likely to be repeated. It is known to be a developmental disorder.However, the effective treatment method has not been established, and even those who have above average intelligence are the cause of hindering social life.

　Oxytocin used in this clinical trial is a hormone secreted from the brain and is widely known to promote labor and lactation.On the other hand, the effect of making it easier to build a relationship of trust with others has been reported in recent years and is attracting attention.

　In this clinical trial, the effect of oxytocin nasal spray on interpersonal communication disorders was examined by conducting an unprecedented, doctor-led, randomized, multicenter, large-scale study.As a result, the effect of oxytocin evaluated by experts based on the behavior in the interview scene is the placebo effect (improvement effect resulting from the expectation that the symptoms will improve when taking a placebo that does not contain effective ingredients). Although it did not exceed the limit, the result was found to correlate with changes in blood concentration of oxytocin.In addition, the objective sociality evaluated by gaze measurement, stereotyped behavior and limited interest were improved by administration of oxytocin.

　From this result, it is expected that a development plan that enables the use of oxytocin in medical treatment will proceed.

Paper information:[Molecular Psychiatry] Effect of intranasal oxytocin on the core social symptoms of autism spectrum disorder: A randomized clinical trial