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Use of naltrexone as a provocative test for hypothalamic-pituitary hormone function
Pharmacology, Biochemistry, and Behavior
|February 1, 1986
Summary
Naltrexone administration in women during the early follicular phase significantly elevated luteinizing hormone (LH), prolactin, ACTH, and cortisol. This suggests oral naltrexone is a safe and effective tool for assessing hypothalamic-anterior pituitary axis function.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Neuroendocrinology
- Reproductive Endocrinology
Background:
- The hypothalamic-anterior pituitary axis regulates crucial endocrine functions.
- Assessing the integrity of this axis is vital in women's health.
- Pharmacological challenges are used to evaluate axis function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of naltrexone on hormonal levels in women.
- To determine if naltrexone can be used to assess hypothalamic-anterior pituitary axis function.
Main Methods:
- Normal adult women received 50 mg of oral naltrexone.
- Administration occurred during the early follicular phase (days 1-4) of the menstrual cycle.
- Plasma levels of LH, prolactin, ACTH, and cortisol were measured.
Main Results:
- Naltrexone administration led to a significant increase in plasma LH levels.
- Significant elevations in prolactin, ACTH, and cortisol were also observed.
- No adverse effects were reported, indicating good tolerability.
Conclusions:
- Oral naltrexone (50 mg) is a safe and effective agent for evaluating the hypothalamic-anterior pituitary axis in women.
- The observed hormonal changes suggest naltrexone stimulates this axis.
- Further research can explore naltrexone's utility in specific clinical populations.