THE INFLUENCE OF METHALLIBURE (ICI 33,828) ON SERUM AND PITUITARY THYROID-STIMULATING HORMONE LEVELS IN THE RAT

in Journal of Endocrinology
Authors:
J. R. BOURKE
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S. W. MANLEY
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R. W. HAWKER
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SUMMARY

The effect of methallibure (ICI 33,828), a non-steroidal pituitary inhibitor, on serum and pituitary thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels has been investigated.

A biphasic action of the drug on serum TSH levels was observed, the greatest falls occurring with the lowest doses (2mg/day). Increasing dose and period of administration induced progressive decreases in pituitary TSH content. These results are interpreted in terms of three actions on the thyroid—pituitary system: (1) inhibition of the release of TSH from the pituitary, (2) inhibition of TSH synthesis evident only at higher doses, and (3) a thyroid-blocking action, which is also only observed at the higher dose levels, with consequent pituitary stimulation via the thyroid—pituitary feedback mechanism. Effects upon body weight and weight of endocrine organs are reported, that upon the seminal vesicles being the most marked.

 

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