[Effect of thyroliberin on the central nervous system]

The paper is concerned with the results of an experimental and clinical study of the hypothalamus-releasing hormone (TRH, rifathyroin). TRH was shown to possess a peculiar spectrum of stimulating action bringing it nearer to such psychotropic agents as psychostimulants and antidepressants. In experiments on animals TRH increased locomotivity without induction of aggression, stereotypia, epileptic disorders, enhanced the effects of amphetamine, apomorphine, L-DOPA, reduced the action of reserpine, haloperidol, and clonidine. TRH facilitated the teaching of rats in a T-form labyrinth causing rotating behavior of rats during administration in the caudate nucleus head. Experimental data indicated the presence of adreno- and dopaminestimulating properties in TRH. Euphoristic and stimulating effects were noted in clinical application of TRH as a diagnostic agent in 42 patients with depressive disturbances.