EFFECTS OF GROWTH HORMONE RELEASE-INHIBITING HORMONE AND BROMOCRYPTINE (CB 154) IN STATES OF ABNORMAL PITUITARY-ADRENAL FUNCTION

Abstract
Growth hormone release-inhibiting hormone (GHR-IH) was administered to 5 patients with abnormal pituitary-adrenal function. There was immediate suppression by about 50% of ACTH levels in 2 patients who had undergone bilateral adrenalectomy because of Cushing''s disease; 1 of them had Nelson''s syndrome. Bromocryptine (2.5 mg) suppressed ACTH levels by 62-67% for more than 6 h in these patients. GHR-IH did not significantly influence cortisol secretion by an adrenal carcinoma and only slight changes were seen in 2 patients with Addison''s disease. The possible therapeutic implications are discussed.