Can a 'Love Hormone' spray tame Prader-Willi symptoms?

NCT ID NCT02804373

Completed Symptom relief Sponsor: University Hospital, Toulouse Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study tested whether oxytocin nasal spray, sometimes called the 'love hormone,' can improve behavior and eating problems in adults with Prader-Willi syndrome. Fifty participants received either oxytocin or a placebo daily or every three days for 28 days. Researchers measured changes in behavior, eating habits, and brain activity using scans.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: oxytocin nasal spray
What this could lead to: If it works, this could offer a new way to ease behavioral and eating problems in Prader-Willi syndrome, improving social function and quality of life.
What could go wrong: This is a small, completed Phase 2/3 trial. Results may not be strong enough to confirm benefit, and oxytocin may not work for everyone or could have side effects like nasal irritation.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Prader-Willi syndrome

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

PRADER-WILLI SYNDROME

Contacts and locations

Locations

Centre de référence Prader-Willi - Hôpital Purpan

Toulouse, 31059, France

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