Beta-endorphin stimulates the secretion of insulin and glucagon in diabetes mellitus.

Administration of human beta-endorphin (2.5 mg IV bolus) to three subjects with non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (type II) induced prompt and simultaneous increments in the plasma concentrations of insulin and glucagon lasting up to 90 minutes. In contrast to the hyperglycemic response previously observed in normal subjects following beta-endorphin, these diabetics showed a progressive decline in plasma glucose throughout the study period. This disparity may be related to a relatively greater release of insulin and lesser rise in glucagon observed in diabetic subjects than in nondiabetic subjects. These preliminary findings suggest that further studies to elucidate the role of pancreatic beta-endorphin on glucoregulation may be rewarding.