Can the 'Love Hormone' help schizophrenia patients connect better?

NCT ID NCT06136390

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tested whether giving oxytocin nasal spray before mindfulness-based group therapy could reduce negative symptoms (like lack of motivation or social withdrawal) in people with schizophrenia. 42 participants were randomly assigned to receive either oxytocin or a placebo spray before each therapy session. The goal was to see if oxytocin, which plays a role in social bonding, could enhance the benefits of group therapy.

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 point toward a way to improve social function and reduce negative symptoms in schizophrenia.

What could go wrong

This is a small, early-stage trial with only 42 participants. Previous results with oxytocin in schizophrenia have been inconsistent, so the added benefit may be modest or absent.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

schizophrenia

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Benjamin Franklin

    Berlin, State of Berlin, 12203, Germany