Blunting of noradrenergic-stimulated growth hormone release in mania.

Dinan, T G; Yatham, L N; O'Keane, V; Barry, S · Am J Psychiatry · 1991

case_control · Level III

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Abstract

Seven drug-free patients with bipolar affective disorder, currently in a manic phase, underwent desipramine-induced growth hormone (GH) stimulation, as did seven healthy age- and sex-matched subjects. There was significant blunting of GH release in the manic patients, suggesting a down-regulation of alpha 2-noradrenergic responses. Blunting of GH release was not related to severity of symptoms, duration of illness, or age. Similar blunting has previously been described in depressed patients.

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