Changes of the growth hormone level after a single small dose of somatostatin

Growth hormone (GH) secretion was studied in children after a single small intravenous (i.v.) dose of somatostatin (Somatotropin Release Inhibiting Factor, SRIF). After a short decrease of the GH level there was a slow increase culminating at 60 minutes, then again a decrease with the lowest point at 90 minutes. During the third hour the GH level showed a second peak; this was more frequent than the first one. It is concluded that a single small dose of somatostatin during the third hour after its administration can cause an increase of the GH level.