Social function improved in autism-spectrum patients treated with the hormone oxytocin, according to a small study.
Known for inducing nurturing in new mothers, oxytocin made the adults with Asperger’s syndrome or high-functioning autism more likely to focus attention on the eyes and inclined to become more social in games.
Previous research has suggested roles for the hormone in emotional regulation and social behaviors. One study found that inhaled oxytocin made adults more trusting of others in a game situation.
(READ ABOUT the good news study at ABC)