The Effect of Oxytocin and Vasopressin in Symptomatically Treating Asocial Behaviour Associated With Autism Spectrum Disorder

Background: In current literature, Oxytocin (OXT) and Vasopressin (AVP) are emerging with therapeutic potential in relation to the social deficits present in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). However, the significance of this relationship and its bearing on future pharmacological interventions has not yet been highlighted. The aim of this study is to conduct a systematic review of the available evidence of the effectiveness of OXT and AVP in treating asocial behaviour in people with ASD.

Methods: All randomized controlled trials investigating the effects of OXT and AVP on the social deficits associated with ASD were eligible for the systematic review. These trials were sought from electronic databases (PubMed, Embase and PsycInfo) and quality-assessed. Data extracted from these studies revealed substantial heterogeneity in the baseline characteristics and outcome measures, precluding a meta-analysis. Hence a narrative synthesis was conducted.

Results: The studies demonstrated a significant effect of OXT on social cognition, highlighting future therapeutic potential. With regards to social function, OXT induced mixed results and this aspect of interactional ability in particular might benefit from further research. Finally, a lack of improvement on both repetitive behaviours and quality of life suggests that alternative treatments should be looked into in order to address these areas of ASD functioning. While AVP did not show significant improvement on any domain other than social function, the studies suggest a therapeutic potential that should not be overlooked.

Conclusion: Given larger and more numerous trials, the pharmacological potential of OXT in ASD is compelling. Studies investigating the effects of AVP are few, and this needs more robust evidence to be included in management therapy.