Sublingual apomorphine as a neuroendocrine probe.

Area of Science:

• Neuroendocrinology
• Pharmacology
• Clinical Neuroscience

Background:

• Subcutaneous apomorphine is a established neuroendocrine probe for central dopaminergic activity.
• Assessing dopaminergic activity is crucial for understanding various neurological conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate sublingual apomorphine as a novel neuroendocrine probe for central dopaminergic activity.
• To assess the hormonal responses (prolactin, growth hormone) to sublingual apomorphine.
• To determine the tolerability and potential side effects of sublingual apomorphine administration.

Main Methods:

• 42 healthy men received a weight-dependent dose of sublingual apomorphine (0.033 mg/kg).
• Prolactin and growth hormone levels were measured serially over 180 minutes.
• Zung's Self-Assessment Scales for Anxiety (SAS) and Depression (SDS) were administered before and after the test.

Main Results:

• Sublingual apomorphine administration led to decreased prolactin levels in all subjects.
• Increased growth hormone levels were observed in 40 out of 42 subjects.
• Significant reductions in anxiety and depression scores were noted post-administration, with no major side effects.

Conclusions:

• Sublingual apomorphine is a well-tolerated and effective neuroendocrine marker for assessing central dopaminergic activity.
• The hormonal response to sublingual apomorphine provides a reliable measure of dopaminergic function.
• This route of administration offers a promising alternative for dopaminergic challenge tests.