The Love Hormone and Seizure Control: A Review of Oxytocin's Impact on Epilepsy Management

*Lufuno Makhado and Thendo Gertie Makhado*

### **Abstract**

Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterised by recurrent seizures, which can significantly impact patient's quality of life. While current management strategies for epilepsy, such as antiepileptic drugs and surgery, are effective for many patients, there is a need for novel therapies that can provide better seizure control and improve patients' outcomes. Oxytocin, a neuropeptide known for its role in social bonding and trust, has emerged as a promising therapy for epilepsy. Preclinical studies have shown that oxytocin can reduce seizure activity and improve seizure outcomes in animal models of epilepsy. In contrast, clinical studies have suggested that oxytocin may reduce seizure frequency and severity in some epilepsy patients. This chapter reviews the current knowledge of oxytocin and epilepsy, including the potential mechanisms of oxytocin's antiepileptic effects, the limitations and challenges of clinical studies, and future research directions and implications. The chapter also discusses the broader impact of oxytocin research on understanding social behaviour and neurological disorders. Overall, the chapter highlights the potential of oxytocin as a novel therapy for epilepsy management and underscores the need for further research.

**Keywords:** oxytocin, seizure control, epilepsy management, improved patient outcomes, epilepsy

#### **1. Introduction**

Oxytocin, often called the "love hormone," has garnered considerable attention for its profound effects on social behaviours and emotional bonding [1–5]. It fosters trust, empathy, and social connection [3, 4, 6]. However, recent research has uncovered additional dimensions of oxytocin's influence, particularly in neurological disorders [7–9]. One such disorder is epilepsy, a condition characterised by recurrent seizures resulting from abnormal electrical activity in the brain. Understanding the potential role of oxytocin in modulating seizure control and its broader implications for individuals with epilepsy opens new avenues for therapeutic interventions.

Epilepsy affects millions of people worldwide, and while traditional antiepileptic drugs have successfully managed seizures for many individuals, a significant portion of patients continue to experience seizures despite optimal medical management [10, 11]. This treatment-resistant epilepsy poses challenges and underscores the need to explore alternative therapeutic approaches. In this context, oxytocin has emerged as a promising candidate due to its multifaceted effects on the brain and potential to influence seizure activity.

Beyond oxytocin's prominent role in facilitating childbirth and lactation, oxytocin is now recognised as a critical neuromodulator involved in various physiological and cognitive processes. Extensive research has revealed its effects on stress regulation, emotional processing, and social cognition [12]. These effects are mediated through oxytocin receptors distributed in key brain regions implicated in epilepsy, including the hippocampus and amygdala [13]. Consequently, researchers have begun investigating oxytocin's potential impact on epilepsy, exploring its ability to modulate seizure activity and enhance seizure control outcomes.

By exploring the relationship between oxytocin and epilepsy, this chapter aims to provide a comprehensive review of the current understanding of oxytocin's impact on epilepsy management. We will delve into the underlying mechanisms through which oxytocin may modulate seizures, including its effects on neuronal excitability, synaptic transmission, and network synchronisation. Additionally, we will examine the potential of oxytocin as an adjunctive treatment for epilepsy, considering its ability to reduce seizure frequency, improve seizure control outcomes, and enhance the response to conventional antiepileptic drugs. Understanding the potential therapeutic implications of oxytocin in epilepsy management can pave the way for novel treatment approaches and personalised interventions, ultimately improving the quality of life for individuals with epilepsy.
