A new study suggests that a nasal spray containing oxytocin, often referred to as the "love hormone," may offer a potential treatment for apathy, a common symptom in patients with frontotemporal dementia (FTD). FTD is a form of early-onset dementia affecting individuals between the ages of 40 and 65, impacting the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain, leading to difficulties with language, behavior, and decision-making.
Apathy, characterized by a loss of interest in hobbies and social withdrawal, can significantly impact the quality of life for FTD patients. Currently, there are no established treatments for this prevalent symptom.
The study, a phase 2 randomized controlled trial, involved 74 patients across 11 centers in Canada and the United States. Participants in the treatment group received two daily doses of oxytocin spray every three days for six weeks. Researchers observed a mild improvement in apathy symptoms among those receiving oxytocin compared to those given a placebo.
While the improvement was described as mild, care partners observed positive changes in patient behavior, such as initiating calls to family members or proactively making coffee. The study's findings, published in The Lancet Neurology, suggest that oxytocin may hold promise as a potential treatment for apathy in FTD.
Dr. Michael Genovese, a medical director of behavioral health at Access TeleCare, who was not involved in the study, highlighted the importance of oxytocin in social bonding, emotional regulation, and motivation. He noted that research suggests oxytocin may reduce apathy by mitigating stress-induced cortisol release and anxiety, enhancing the ability to interpret mental states, improving emotional recognition, and boosting confidence in established relationships.
However, Dr. Genovese emphasized that further research is necessary to confirm the effectiveness and long-term effects of oxytocin treatment. He also cautioned about potential side effects, such as nausea, headaches, or mild allergic reactions, and the possibility of oxytocin intensifying negative emotions in some individuals.
The study underscores the need for continued research into effective treatments for FTD and its associated symptoms. While oxytocin shows promise, further investigation is crucial to understand its long-term effects and safety profile.