Promoting self-compassion meditation with intranasal oxytocin in borderline personality disorder: a pilot study.
Maria Arqueros, Joaquim Soler, David Almenta et al.
✦ AI-curated · Sources linked
In 30 seconds
This randomized controlled trial investigated the effects of intranasal oxytocin (24 IU) on compassion meditation quality in 18 individuals with borderline personality disorder (BPD). The study found that oxytocin significantly improved scores on the imagination dimension of compassion practice quality compared to placebo, suggesting a potential role in enhancing therapeutic engagement.
Key findings
- Oxytocin was associated with higher endpoint scores on the imagination dimension of compassion practice quality compared to placebo.
- No significant differences were found for the total score or somatic dimension of compassion practice.
- No adverse effects related to oxytocin administration were reported.
Why it matters
Understanding the role of oxytocin in enhancing compassion-based practices could improve therapeutic outcomes for individuals with BPD, who often struggle with self-criticism and emotional dysregulation.