Scientists Develop 'Social Viagra' Drug to Overcome Shyness

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Scientists from the California’s Claremont Graduate University have developed a “social Viagra” drug. Others are also working on this concept to commercialize a new drug on the market.

Scientists found that oxytocin, a natural hormone in mothers, assists childbirth and helps mothers bond with their newborn babies. It also helps reduce anxiety and calm phobias in babies.

Scientists want to use oxytocin and try to cure shyness. They also think the drug might help people with autism.

Paul Zak, a professor of neuroscience at California's Claremont Graduate University, has tested the hormone on hundreds of patients and has found satisfactory results so far. He told the Telegraph:

"Tests have shown that oxytocin reduces anxiety levels in users. It is a hormone that facilitates social contact between people. What's more, it is a very safe product that does not have any side effects and is not addictive."

This research has been independently verified by studies in other countries.

In one study in Switzerland, researchers were able to reduce symptoms of extreme shyness in 120 patients by giving oxytocin as a hormone treatment. The treatment was given to test subjects 30 minutes before they encountered an awkward situation.

According to the Telegraph, millions of people in the UK suffer from shyness and one-in-10 say it seriously affects their social life. Most resort to drugs or alcohol to overcome their shyness.

Oxytocin is also connected to an individual’s generosity; the more generous, the more someone is likely to donate to charities and are friendly to strangers. And another study showed that it increases monogamy in rodents, so there is a possibility that oxytocin may work for errant husbands and wives.

Oxytocin could also help new mothers who have trouble bonding with their babies, or help orphan children get closer with their new adoptive parents.

There are obviously many benefits of oxytocin with no apparent side affects. Let's just hope people don't over do it and abuse it.