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Cited by 209Regulation of Appetite and ObesityNeuroendocrine regulation and behaviorAdipokines, Inflammation, and Metabolic Diseases

Oxytocin reduces caloric intake in men

Open access
Lawson, Elizabeth A., Marengi, Dean A., DeSanti, Rebecca L., Holmes, Tara M., Schoenfeld, David A., Tolley, Christiane J.·2015·Obesity
DOI 10.1002/oby.21069PMC PMC4414748
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Abstract

OBJECTIVE: Preclinical studies indicate that oxytocin is anorexigenic and has beneficial metabolic effects. Oxytocin effects on nutrition and metabolism in humans are not well defined. It was hypothesized that oxytocin would reduce caloric intake and appetite and alter levels of appetite-regulating hormones. Metabolic effects of oxytocin were also explored. METHODS: A randomized, placebo-controlled crossover study of single-dose intranasal oxytocin (24 IU) in 25 fasting healthy men was performed. After oxytocin/placebo, subjects selected breakfast from a menu and were given double portions. Caloric content of food consumed was measured. Visual analog scales were used to assess appetite, and blood was drawn for appetite-regulating hormones, insulin, and glucose before and after oxytocin/placebo. Indirect calorimetry assessed resting energy expenditure (REE) and substrate utilization. RESULTS: Oxytocin reduced caloric intake with a preferential effect on fat intake and increased levels of the anorexigenic hormone cholecystokinin without affecting appetite or other appetite-regulating hormones. There was no effect of oxytocin on REE. Oxytocin resulted in a shift from carbohydrate to fat utilization and improved insulin sensitivity. CONCLUSIONS: Intranasal oxytocin reduces caloric intake and has beneficial metabolic effects in men without concerning side effects. The efficacy and safety of sustained oxytocin administration in the treatment of obesity warrants investigation.

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Written from the paper’s full text.

TL;DR

In a randomized, placebo-controlled crossover study of 25 fasting healthy men, single-dose intranasal oxytocin (24 IU) reduced total caloric intake at a subsequent breakfast meal and improved some metabolic measures. Oxytocin increased cholecystokinin, shifted substrate utilization toward fat, and improved insulin sensitivity without affecting subjective appetite or resting energy expenditure.

Key findings

  • Oxytocin reduced total caloric intake by 122±51 kcal (p=0.03), with a preferential reduction in fat intake of 8.7±3.8 g (p=0.03; not significant after controlling for multiple comparisons); protein (−3.9±2.2 g) and carbohydrate (−7.2±9.4 g) reductions were not statistically significant. Oxytocin did not affect calories ordered or subjective appetite measures.
  • Oxytocin increased serum cholecystokinin by 10.9±3.1 pg/mL (p=0.002), but this increase was not related to caloric intake. There was no treatment effect on oxytocin (p=0.1), leptin (p=0.5), ghrelin (p=0.2), or PYY (p=0.8) levels.
  • Resting energy expenditure was unchanged, but respiratory quotient decreased (−0.03±0.01, p=0.02), carbohydrate utilization decreased (−0.02±0.01, p=0.03), and fat utilization increased (0.01±0.00, p=0.04); triglycerides trended lower (−1.8 mg/dL, p=0.07).
  • Oxytocin reduced average insulin levels (−1.7±0.8 uU/mL, p=0.04) and HOMA-IR (−0.4, p=0.04) without affecting glucose levels. Blood pressure and heart rate were unaffected; temperature decreased slightly 15 minutes after administration (−0.3 °F, p=0.006), and adverse events were few, none severe, with no difference between oxytocin and placebo.

Methods

  • Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover study of single-dose intranasal oxytocin (24 IU) versus placebo in 25 healthy men aged 18–45 years: 13 normal-weight and 12 overweight/obese; study visits occurred one to eight weeks apart.
  • After oxytocin/placebo, subjects selected breakfast from a menu, were given double portions, and consumed food was weighed to quantify nutrient intake; visual analogue scales assessed appetite, blood was drawn for appetite-regulating hormones, insulin, and glucose, and indirect calorimetry assessed resting energy expenditure and substrate utilization.
  • Analysis used analysis of variance with period, treatment, and patient effects and baseline value as covariate when available; repeated measures analysis of variance included time; a group (normal-weight, overweight/obese)-treatment interaction tested whether treatment effects differed by group.

Limitations

  • The paper states that the study was limited by a relatively small sample size, so larger studies might detect differences in appetite, types of calories consumed, or resting energy expenditure; it focused exclusively on men because of potential effects of estrogen and progesterone on oxytocin secretion and receptor distribution; and it tested only an acute single dose, so whether chronic oxytocin promotes or maintains weight loss and improved glucose metabolism is unknown.
  • Evident from the text: the CCK increase was not related to caloric intake, so whether CCK mediates oxytocin’s effects remains unclear; the fat-intake reduction was not significant after controlling for multiple comparisons; and the acute single-meal design cannot establish sustained effects on weight or safety.

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Registry

Crossref · 10.1002/oby.21069

Cites

40 of 40 references verified0 citation errors · 0 not checkable

Statistics

Nothing to recompute.

Claims the paper makes

0 of 57 cited sources checked · 0 supported · 0 flagged

  • Findingown data

    Oxytocin does not affect the caloric content of food ordered from the menu.

    “Oxytocin did not impact caloric content of food ordered from the menu.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • Findingown data

    The effect of oxytocin on caloric intake does not differ between normal-weight and overweight/obese men.

    “Group (NW vs. OB) did not affect results.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • Findingown data

    Oxytocin reduces HOMA-IR (−0.4, p=0.04) over the time points.

    “Oxytocin reduced average insulin levels (−1.7±0.8 uU/mL, p=0.04) and HOMA-IR (−0.4, p=0.04) over the time points but had no effect on glucose levels.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • Findingown data

    Oxytocin reduces average insulin levels (−1.7±0.8 uU/mL, p=0.04) over the time points.

    “Oxytocin reduced average insulin levels (−1.7±0.8 uU/mL, p=0.04) and HOMA-IR (−0.4, p=0.04) over the time points but had no effect on glucose levels.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • Findingown data

    Oxytocin does not change resting energy expenditure (REE).

    “While REE was not changed by oxytocin administration, RQ was reduced (−0.03±0.01, p=0.02).”
    • Also stated in: § Results · plain
      “There was no effect of oxytocin on REE.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • The quote only partly states this claim. 1
  • May combine two claims. 24
  • Classified as probably not a substantial claim. 25

  • The quote only partly states this claim.

    Findingown data

    Intranasal oxytocin (24 IU) reduces total caloric intake at a subsequent breakfast meal in healthy men.

    “Oxytocin reduced the total caloric intake by 122±51 kcal (p=0.03) (Figure 2).”
    • Also stated in: § Discussion · plain
      “we report that a single dose of intranasal oxytocin reduces total caloric intake at a subsequent meal.”
    • Also stated in: § Results · plain
      “Oxytocin reduced caloric intake with a preferential effect on fat intake and increased levels of the anorexigenic hormone cholecystokinin without affecting appetite or other appetite-regulating hormones.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Findingown data

    Oxytocin does not significantly reduce protein intake (−3.9±2.2 g) or carbohydrate intake (−7.2±9.4 g).

    “Protein (−3.9±2.2 g) and carbohydrate (−7.2±9.4 g) intake were reduced, but this was not statistically significant.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Findingown data

    Oxytocin has no treatment effect on serum oxytocin (p=0.1), leptin (p=0.5), ghrelin (p=0.2), or PYY (p=0.8) levels.

    “There was no treatment effect on oxytocin (p=0.1), leptin (p=0.5), ghrelin (p=0.2) or PYY (p=0.8) levels.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Findingown data

    Oxytocin results in a trend toward reduction of triglyceride levels (−1.8 mg/dL, p=0.07).

    “There was a trend toward reduction of triglyceride levels following oxytocin (−1.8 mg/dL, p=0.07) (Table 2).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Findingown data

    Oxytocin reduces fat intake by 8.7±3.8 g (p=0.03; not significant after controlling for multiple comparisons).

    “Oxytocin reduced fat intake by 8.7±3.8 g (p=0.03; NS after controlling for multiple comparisons).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Findingown data

    There are few adverse events, none severe, with no difference between oxytocin and placebo conditions.

    “There were few adverse events in the study, none of which was severe (Table 3), with no difference between oxytocin and placebo conditions.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Findingown data

    Oxytocin causes a slight decrease in temperature 15 minutes after administration (−0.3 °F, p=0.006).

    “There was a slight decrease in temperature 15 minutes after administration (−0.3 °F, p=0.006).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Findingown data

    At baseline, HOMA-IR is higher in overweight/obese men than normal-weight men (2.1±0.4 vs. 0.9±0.1, p=0.04).

    “At baseline, HOMA-IR was higher in OB than NW (2.1±0.4 vs. 0.9±0.1, p=0.04).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Findingown data

    Oxytocin does not affect blood pressure or heart rate.

    “Oxytocin did not affect blood pressure or heart rate.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Classified as probably not a substantial claim.

    Study design and conductown data

    The study was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover study.

    “We performed a randomized, placebo-controlled crossover study of single-dose intranasal oxytocin (24 IU) in 25 fasting healthy men.”
    • Also stated in: § Introduction · plain
      “We performed a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover study investigating oxytocin effects on caloric intake.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim

  • Classified as probably not a substantial claim.

    Study design and conductnone given

    Subjects were asked to replicate food intake from the 72 hours prior to the first visit in the 72 hours prior to the second visit.

    “A copy of the food diary collected at the first visit was returned to the subject, who was asked to replicate food intake from the 72 hours prior to the first visit in the 72 hours prior to the second visit.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    In animal models, administration of oxytocin to rats reduces caloric intake, and this effect is reversed by first giving an oxytocin antagonist.

    “Administration of oxytocin to rats reduces caloric intake, and this effect is reversed by first giving an oxytocin antagonist(4, 5).”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 2 sources checked
    • cites [4] Arletti, 1989, Influence of oxytocin on feeding behavior in the rat, Peptides source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [5] Olson, 1991, Oxytocin and an oxytocin agonist administered centrally decrease food intake in rats, Peptides source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Preclinical studies indicate that oxytocin is anorexigenic and has beneficial metabolic effects.

    “Preclinical studies indicate that oxytocin is anorexigenic and has beneficial metabolic effects.”
    • Also stated in: § Introduction · plain
      “In animal models, oxytocin, a peptide hormone primarily produced in the supraoptic (SON) and paraventricular (PVN) hypothalamic nuclei, is anorexigenic(4, 5).”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 2 sources checked
    • cites [4] Arletti, 1989, Influence of oxytocin on feeding behavior in the rat, Peptides source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [5] Olson, 1991, Oxytocin and an oxytocin agonist administered centrally decrease food intake in rats, Peptides source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Oxytocin induces weight loss in rodents, and this effect may be related to increased energy expenditure and lipolysis in addition to appetite suppression.

    “Oxytocin induces weight loss in rodents, and this effect may be related to increased energy expenditure and lipolyis in addition to appetite suppression(6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 6 sources checked
    • cites [6] Kasahara, 2007, Impaired thermoregulatory ability of oxytocin-deficient mice during cold-exposure, Biosci Biotechnol Biochem source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [7] Deblon, 2011, Mechanisms of the anti-obesity effects of oxytocin in diet-induced obese rats, PloS One source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [8] Noble, 2014, Oxytocin in the ventromedial hypothalamic nucleus reduces feeding and acutely increases energy expenditure, Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [9] Zhang, 2011, Neuropeptide exocytosis involving synaptotagmin-4 and oxytocin in hypothalamic programming of body weight and energy balance, Neuron source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [10] Zhang, 2011, Circadian intervention of obesity development via resting-stage feeding manipulation or oxytocin treatment, Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [11] Blevins, 2014, Chronic oxytocin administration inhibits food intake, increases energy expenditure, and produces weight loss in fructose-fed obese rhesus monkeys, Am J Physiol Regu Integr Comp Physiol

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Interpretationreasoning

    The 122 kcal reduction in caloric intake may be clinically relevant, corresponding to about 366 kcal/day or about 4 kg over 12 weeks and more than 17 kg over a year if the effect is equivalent over three meals per day and sustained over time.

    “The effect size of 122 kcal may be clinically relevant, as this would amount to 366 kcal/day or about 4 kg over twelve weeks and more than 17 kg over a year if the effect of oxytocin is equivalent over three meals per day and sustained over time.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim
    • The authors state this as an assumption: The 122 kcal reduction per meal would be equivalent over three meals per day and sustained over time.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

    Study design and conductnone given

    The study was approved by Partners Human Research Committee and written informed consent was obtained.

    “This study was approved by Partners Human Research Committee. Written informed consent was obtained.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Classified as probably not a substantial claim.

    Study design and conductnone given

    Subjects and study personnel were blinded to the randomization.

    “Subjects and study personnel were blinded to the randomization.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Interpretationown data

    A single dose of oxytocin reduces fasting insulin secretion and HOMA-IR without affecting glucose levels, supporting the concept that oxytocin may improve insulin sensitivity independent of its effects on weight.

    “Our finding in men that a single dose of oxytocin reduces fasting insulin secretion and HOMA-IR without affecting glucose levels supports the concept that oxytocin may improve insulin sensitivity independent of its effects on weight.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Study design and conductcitation

    Visual analogue scales (VAS) are a reliable method to assess appetite.

    “VAS, a reliable method to assess appetite(17), were administered fasting before and after oxytocin/placebo.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [17] Flint, 2000, Reproducibility, power and validity of visual analogue scales in assessment of appetite sensations in single test meal studies, Int J Obes Relat Metab Disord source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Study design and conductnone given

    The study is limited by a relatively small sample size.

    “This study is limited by a relatively small sample size.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Interpretationown data

    Intranasal oxytocin reduces caloric intake and has beneficial metabolic effects in men without concerning side effects.

    “Intranasal oxytocin reduces caloric intake and has beneficial metabolic effects in men without concerning side effects.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Study design and conductnone given

    The research pharmacy randomized the visit order in which subjects received drug or placebo.

    “The research pharmacy randomized the visit order in which subjects received drug or placebo.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisecitation

    Blevins et al. have demonstrated that chronic administration of oxytocin reduces consumption of fructose-sweetened beverage in obese nonhuman primates.

    “Furthermore, Blevins et al. have demonstrated that chronic administration of oxytocin reduces consumption of fructose-sweetened beverage in obese nonhuman primates(11).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [11] Blevins, 2014, Chronic oxytocin administration inhibits food intake, increases energy expenditure, and produces weight loss in fructose-fed obese rhesus monkeys, Am J Physiol Regu Integr Comp Physiol

      Not checked in the free run.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisecitation

    Parvocellular neurons of the PVN extend to the caudal brainstem, where they regulate autonomic control of feeding.

    “Parvocellular neurons of the PVN extend to the caudal brainstem, where they regulate autonomic control of feeding(23, 24).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 2 sources checked
    • cites [23] Rinaman, 1998, Oxytocinergic inputs to the nucleus of the solitary tract and dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus in neonatal rats, J Comp Neurol source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [24] McCann, 1990, Oxytocin excites gastric-related neurones in rat dorsal vagal complex, J Physiol source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisecitation

    Several food motivation pathways, including those involving leptin, alpha-MSH and AgRP, converge on oxytocin neurons.

    “Several food motivation pathways, including those involving leptin, alpha-MSH and AgRP, converge on oxytocin neurons(20, 21, 22).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 3 sources checked
    • cites [20] Atasoy, 2012, Deconstruction of a neural circuit for hunger, Nature source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [21] Blevins, 2004, Evidence that paraventricular nucleus oxytocin neurons link hypothalamic leptin action to caudal brain stem nuclei controlling meal size, Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [22] Sabatier, 2003, Alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone stimulates oxytocin release from the dendrites of hypothalamic neurons while inhibiting oxytocin release from their terminals in the neurohypophysis, J Neurosci source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Oxytocin administered intranasally has central actions with minimal side effects.

    “Oxytocin administered intranasally has central actions with minimal side effects, and is appealing as a potential targeted therapy for obesity(15).”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [15] MacDonald, 2011, A review of safety, side-effects and subjective reactions to intranasal oxytocin in human research, Psychoneuroendocrinology source

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    Premisecitation

    Another study found that intravenous oxytocin reduced total ghrelin levels.

    “Although another study found that intravenous oxytocin reduced total ghrelin levels, ours did not find an effect of intranasal oxytocin on levels of acylated ghrelin, the active form of ghrelin with established orexigenic properties(31).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [31] Vila, 2009, Systemic administration of oxytocin reduces basal and lipopolysaccharide-induced ghrelin levels in healthy men, J Endocrinol source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisecitation

    Axonal release of oxytocin from the PVN may have effects on hedonic food consumption via dopaminergic mesolimbic neurons in the ventral tegmental area (VTA).

    “Axonal release of oxytocin from the PVN may also have effects on hedonic food consumption via dopaminergic mesolimbic neurons in the ventral tegmental area (VTA)(25, 26, 27).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 3 sources checked
    • cites [25] Sabatier, 2013, Oxytocin, feeding, and satiety, Front Endocrinol source

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    • cites [26] Sofroniew, 1980, Projections from vasopressin, oxytocin, and neurophysin neurons to neural targets in the rat and human, J Histochem Cytochem source

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    • cites [27] Qi, 2008, Inhibition by oxytocin of methamphetamine-induced hyperactivity related to dopamine turnover in the mesolimbic region in mice, Naunyn-Schmiedeberg's Arch Pharmacol source

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  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Borg reported that in 10 healthy adults, 40 mU/min IV oxytocin, but not 20 mU/min or 80 mU/min, reduced satiety without affecting volume of intake of a liquid meal.

    “Borg reported that in 10 healthy adults, 40 mU/min IV oxytocin, but not 20 mU/min or 80 mU/min, reduced satiety without affecting volume of intake of a liquid meal(13).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [13] Borg, 2011, Oxytocin reduces satiety scores without affecting the volume of nutrient intake or gastric emptying rate in healthy subjects, Neurogastroenterol Motil source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Ott et al. demonstrated reduced postprandial consumption of a snack, particularly chocolate cookies, suggesting an effect on reward-driven feeding.

    “Although Ott’s study did not show an effect of oxytocin on breakfast intake, it did demonstrate reduced postprandial consumption of a snack, particularly chocolate cookies, suggesting an effect on reward-driven feeding(14).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [14] Ott, 2013, Oxytocin reduces reward-driven food intake in humans, Diabetes source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Oxytocin is released by dendrites of magnocellular neurons of the PVN and SON, and may reduce food intake in part via diffusion to the ventromedial nucleus, a satiety-regulating brain region rich in oxytocin receptors.

    “Oxytocin is also released by dendrites of magnocellular neurons of the PVN and SON, and may reduce food intake in part via diffusion to the ventromedial nucleus, a satiety-regulating brain region rich in oxytocin receptors(25).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [25] Sabatier, 2013, Oxytocin, feeding, and satiety, Front Endocrinol source

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  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisecitation

    In rats, acute administration of oxytocin into the VTA suppresses sucrose intake.

    “In rats, acute administration of oxytocin into the VTA suppresses sucrose intake(28).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [28] Mullis, 2013, Oxytocin action in the ventral tegmental area affects sucrose intake, Brain Res source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Studies in rats demonstrate that intraperitoneal oxytocin increases levels of the peripheral satiety hormone CCK and inhibits gastric emptying; these effects are blocked by administration of a CCK-1 receptor antagonist.

    “Studies in rats demonstrate that intraperitoneal oxytocin increases levels of the peripheral satiety hormone CCK and inhibits gastric emptying; these effects are blocked by administration of a CCK-1 receptor antagonist(29, 30).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 2 sources checked
    • cites [29] Wu, 2003, Pharmacological effects of oxytocin on gastric emptying and intestinal transit of a non-nutritive liquid meal in female rats, Naunyn-Schmiedeberg's Arch Pharmacol source

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    • cites [30] Wu, 2008, Involvement of cholecystokinin receptor in the inhibition of gastrointestinal motility by oxytocin in ovariectomized rats, Eur J Pharmacol source

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    Premisecitation

    Oxytocin has been implicated in the regulation of energy metabolism.

    “In addition to its role in food intake, oxytocin has been implicated in the regulation of energy metabolism.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 2 sources checked
    • cites [6] Kasahara, 2007, Impaired thermoregulatory ability of oxytocin-deficient mice during cold-exposure, Biosci Biotechnol Biochem source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [32] Takayanagi, 2008, Oxytocin receptor-deficient mice developed late-onset obesity, Neuroreport source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisecitation

    A study of chronic oxytocin infusion in mice reported a reduction in RQ.

    “A study of chronic oxytocin infusion in mice similarly reported a reduction in RQ(34).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [34] Maejima, 2011, Peripheral oxytocin treatment ameliorates obesity by reducing food intake and visceral fat mass, Aging source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    In obese mice, oxytocin reduces fasting insulin secretion and insulin resistance and improves glucose tolerance prior to a change in weight.

    “In obese mice, oxytocin reduces fasting insulin secretion and insulin resistance and improves glucose tolerance prior to a change in weight(12).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [12] Zhang, 2013, Treatment of obesity and diabetes using oxytocin or analogs in patients and mouse models, PloS One source

      Not checked in the free run.

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    Premisecitation

    Oxytocin and oxytocin receptor knockout mice develop obesity and reduced thermogenesis without a change in nutrient intake.

    “Oxytocin and oxytocin receptor knockout mice develop obesity and reduced thermogenesis without a change in nutrient intake(6, 32).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 2 sources checked
    • cites [6] Kasahara, 2007, Impaired thermoregulatory ability of oxytocin-deficient mice during cold-exposure, Biosci Biotechnol Biochem source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [32] Takayanagi, 2008, Oxytocin receptor-deficient mice developed late-onset obesity, Neuroreport source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Oxytocin knockout mice develop insulin resistance and glucose intolerance.

    “Oxytocin knockout mice develop insulin resistance and glucose intolerance(38).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [38] Camerino, 2009, Low sympathetic tone and obese phenotype in oxytocin-deficient mice, Obesity source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    In vitro and in vivo experiments have demonstrated that oxytocin inhibits adipogenesis and promotes lipolytic pathways and fatty acid oxidation.

    “In vitro and in vivo experiments have demonstrated that oxytocin inhibits adipogenesis and promotes lipolytic pathways and fatty acid oxidation(7, 37).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 2 sources checked
    • cites [7] Deblon, 2011, Mechanisms of the anti-obesity effects of oxytocin in diet-induced obese rats, PloS One source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [37] Elabd, 2008, Oxytocin controls differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cells and reverses osteoporosis, Stem Cells source

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  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    In an investigation of rats receiving a high fat diet, central oxytocin attenuated weight gain without changing food intake.

    “In an investigation of rats receiving a high fat diet, central oxytocin attenuated weight gain without changing food intake(7).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [7] Deblon, 2011, Mechanisms of the anti-obesity effects of oxytocin in diet-induced obese rats, PloS One source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisecitation

    Preclinical research indicates that oxytocin may be involved in glucose homeostasis.

    “Preclinical research indicates that oxytocin may be involved in glucose homeostasis.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [38] Camerino, 2009, Low sympathetic tone and obese phenotype in oxytocin-deficient mice, Obesity source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    In another study of diet induced obesity in rats, systemic oxytocin reduced caloric intake and body weight without changing REE, indicating that oxytocin blocked the effect of weight loss to reduce energy expenditure.

    “In another study of diet induced obesity in rats, systemic oxytocin reduced caloric intake and body weight without changing REE, indicating that oxytocin blocked the effect of weight loss to reduce energy expenditure(33).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [33] Morton, 2012, Peripheral oxytocin suppresses food intake and causes weight loss in diet-induced obese rats, Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisecitation

    Peripheral oxytocin administration in rats increases insulin-sensitive glucose transporter 4 mRNA in fat, suggesting a mechanism for increasing insulin sensitivity.

    “Peripheral oxytocin administration in rats increases insulin-sensitive glucose transporter 4 mRNA in fat, suggesting a mechanism for increasing insulin sensitivity(39).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [39] Eckertova, 2011, Subchronic treatment of rats with oxytocin results in improved adipocyte differentiation and increased gene expression of factors involved in adipogenesis, Br J Pharmacol source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Ott et al. showed that intranasal oxytocin reduced postprandial glucose but not insulin levels in healthy men.

    “Ott et al. showed that intranasal oxytocin reduced postprandial glucose but not insulin levels in healthy men(14).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [14] Ott, 2013, Oxytocin reduces reward-driven food intake in humans, Diabetes source

      Not checked in the free run.

44 of 44

  • The authors state this as an assumption.

    The 122 kcal reduction per meal would be equivalent over three meals per day and sustained over time.

    “if the effect of oxytocin is equivalent over three meals per day and sustained over time”
1 of 1

Claims other papers make about this one

Each is checked against this paper’s own text: does it say what the citing paper says it does?

  • Intranasal oxytocin administration improves appetite regulation in humans.

    “Notably, research indicates that intranasal oxytocin administration improves appetite regulation in humans47,48.”

    From Oxytocin pathway gene networks in the human brain (2019) · cites this paper as [47]

Self-check

Percentages, sums and reported differences re-computed from the paper’s own numbers.

Each contradiction between two passages listed here was confirmed by an independent check.

  • Overall exercise mean is below both group means

    Minor

    The reported overall exercise mean is 3.4 hours per week, but the means for the two groups making up the sample are 5.8 and 5.3 hours per week. An overall mean cannot be lower than both group means.

  • Overall weight variability is reported as an SEM but matches an SD

    Minor

    The text labels values as mean±SEM, yet the reported overall weight SEM of 17.8 kg is incompatible with the group sizes, means, and SEMs. Those group figures imply an overall SEM of about 3.6 kg; 17.8 kg is approximately the implied overall standard deviation.

2 of 2

Cites

Flagged first, then by citations

1 of the 41 references couldn’t be matched to a known paper.

Cited by

Sorted by citations

Related

Authors
Lawson, E. A., Marengi, D. A., DeSanti, R. L., Holmes, T. M., Schoenfeld, D. A., & Tolley, C. J.
Affiliations
Harvard University (US)
Corresponding author
Lawson, Elizabeth A.
ORCID
Venue
Obesity
Publisher
Wiley
Published
2015-04-10
Volume
23
Issue
5
Pages
950-956
ISSN
1930-7381 (ISSN-L)
DOI
10.1002/oby.21069
PMC
PMC4414748
OpenAlex
W1532235063
Cited by
208
References
41
Citations by year
2026: 11 · 2025: 14 · 2024: 8 · 2023: 18 · 2022: 14 · 2021: 20 · 2020: 16 · 2019: 26 · 2018: 30 · 2017: 22 · 2016: 23 · 2015: 5 · 2014: 1
FWCI
14.79
Type
journal article
Language
en
Open access
Licence
Locations
  • Obesity (publishedVersion)
  • PubMed (publishedVersion)
  • Europe PMC (PubMed Central) (acceptedVersion)
  • PubMed Central (acceptedVersion)
  • Digital Access to Scholarship at Harvard (DASH) (Harvard University) (submittedVersion, cc-by)
Funders
National Institutes of Health (K23 MH092560, 1UL1 TR001102-01, 2P30DK046200)
Topics
  • Life Sciences › Neuroscience › Endocrine and Autonomic Systems › Regulation of Appetite and Obesity
  • Social Sciences › Psychology › Social Psychology › Neuroendocrine regulation and behavior
  • Health Sciences › Medicine › Epidemiology › Adipokines, Inflammation, and Metabolic Diseases
Keywords
oxytocin, energy intake, appetite, cholecystokinin, appetite-regulating hormones, resting energy expenditure, substrate utilization, insulin sensitivity, dietary fat intake, obesity treatment, intranasal administration
MeSH terms
Administration, Intranasal, Adolescent, Adult, Appetite, Appetite Depressants, Blood Glucose, Energy Intake, Calorimetry, Indirect, Cholecystokinin, Energy Metabolism, Humans, Insulin, Male, Middle Aged, Oxytocin, Cross-Over Studies, Young Adult

About these checks

Registry, retraction, Cites and statistics results are computed, not judged, with one exception: a printed reference that no index lists is read once by a model before it counts as a citation error. Claims are extracted by a model and kept only when their quote appears verbatim in the text; each cited source is then checked, with a model’s help, for whether it says what the claim relies on. Those verdicts can be wrong — read the claim’s quote and the cited source before relying on one.

Claims read by deepseek-v4.1-flash under definition version 3 (extract-v3) on 2026-10-09.

Classified by jev-1.13-20260917 (gold-guideline-v0.2) on 2026-10-09.

Statistics and arithmetic are recomputed, not judged.

Confidence bands are shown only for fields calibrated on our annotated test set. None is calibrated yet, so no band is shown.

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