[The effect of acupuncture on endocrine regulation in hypertensive patients]

Thirty-five stage I-II essential hypertension subjects aged 25-63 were examined after the 1st and 10th acupuncture to clarify the effect of a single procedure and a course of acupuncture treatment on blood ACTH, STH, TTH, beta-endorphine, neurotensin, thyroxine, aldosterone, hydrocortisone and plasma renin activity. The hormonal spectrum was determined by radioimmunoassay using special kits. The blood was obtained before acupuncture, 5 min after introduction of the needles, immediately and 30 min after their removal. It is shown that acupuncture-related decline of arterial pressure occurs in participation of pituitary and adrenal hormones as well as polypeptides beta-endorphine and neurotensin.