Exploring the mechanistic link between the oxytocinergic system and mindfulness training in adults with heightened stress: study protocol for a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial (MOX-MIND).
BMC psychiatry July 1, 2025 E van Weert, H J De Vuyst, K Van der Gucht et al.
Combining oxytocin nasal spray with mindfulness training may enhance stress regulation more effectively than either intervention alone. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial will assign 120 adults with high stress to four groups: oxytocin plus mindfulness, mindfulness plus placebo, oxytocin alone, or placebo alone. The spray will be taken four mornings per week for six weeks before mindfulness sessions. Primary outcomes are self-reported stress, depression, and anxiety; secondary outcomes include mood, mindfulness skills, quality of life, sleep, and negative thinking. Exploratory measures include brain activity, heart rate, skin conductance, breathing, hormone levels, and daily-life stress. Results could inform treatments for people with impaired oxytocin function.