EFFECT OF FLUPHENAZINE ON PITUITARY FUNCTION IN MAN

Abstract

The growth hormone (hGH) and prolactin (hPRL) response to insulin induced hypoglycemia was studied in 6 alcoholics on 2 occasions before and after treatment with a single i.m. injection of fluphenazine (Modecate). On both occasions blood samples were taken at intervals before and after the i.v. injection of soluble insulin (0.1 u[units]/kg body wt). The patients were investigated on the 1st occasion 2-7 days after cessation of drinking and they all demonstrated an adequate hGH response. They then received an injection of fluphenazine (Modecate 12.5 mg) and were reinvestigated 1 wk later. The hGH response to hypoglycemia was significantly impaired after treatment with fluphenazine. Basal hPRL concentrations were significantly increased and increased concentrations of hPRL in response to hypoglycemia occurred after treatment. A single injection of fluphenazine (Modecate 12.5 mg) apparently has a marked effect on hypothalamic-pituitary mechanisms controlling hGH and hPRL release.