THE EFFECT OF CYPROHEPTADINE ON THE RELEASE OF CORTICOTROPHIN RELEASING FACTOR

Abstract

The effect of cyproheptadine was tested on the neurotransmitter-induced release of corticotropin releasing factor (CRF) from the rat hypothalamus in vitro. Cyproheptadine inhibited both acetylcholine and 5-hydroxytryptamine-induced release of CRF. Cyproheptadine did not interfere with the ACTH releasing ability of CRF. Cyproheptadine reduces the high circulating levels of ACTH in some patients suffering from Cushing''s disease and Nelson''s syndrome by inhibiting CRF secretion.