Oxytocin

This chapter reviews the workings of oxytocin, nested in hypothalamic and pituitary (or hypophysis) brain structures, and fundamental for human social relationships and well-being states, known as oxytocinergic system. HPA axis and oxytonergic system are presented, to the extent that they are responsible for stress and well-being states, respectively. The plural possibilities of oxytocin as an evolutionary hormone will be presented, such as sexual, social, anti-panic, immunological, regenerative, anti-algic, and regulatory functions. In closing, we will make a comparison between oxytocin and psychoanalytic libido as complimentary concepts.