Changes in serum LH and FSH following preovulatory administration of ethanol in rats

The effect of different single doses of ethanol (1.0, 2.0 and 4.0 g/kg) on serum LH and FSH has been studied in rats treated during preovulatory periods (18th h of diestrous). High doses of ethanol (2.0 and 4.0 g/kg) decreased serum LH levels at the 18th h of proestrous, 24 h after ethanol administration, inhibiting the preovulatory LH surge. No changes were observed in FSH levels. These effects could be mediated through the inhibition of the hypothalamic releasing factors.