[-Effect of endogenous opioids on adrenal cortex activity in women with hypothalamic amenorrhea-].

OBJECTIVE

Within an ovulation induction study, we investigated the activity and reactivity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis in women suffering from hypothalamic amenorrhea by using naloxone.

METHODS

The central opioid receptors were blocked by means of a naloxone bolus injection of 4 mg i.v. daily.

RESULTS

Before and after receptor blockade, the cortisol secretion showed diverse results independently from the hypothalamic opioid tone. The cortisol levels were not elevated. Also, the basal secretion of cortisol and DHEAS was nonspecific among the various responder groups.

CONCLUSION

It seems that there is no close relationship between central opioid tone and adrenal function in hypothalamic amenorrhea.