Effect of psychotropic drugs on neuroendocrine function

Selected studies of the neuroendocrine effects of the major classes of psychotropic drugs in clinical use have been reviewed. Many of these drugs do affect secretion of pituitary hormones and the target glands. Some clinically relevant effects such as galactorrhea and gynecomastia produced by neuroleptics and abnormalities of thyroid function produced by lithium carbonate are noted. However, even these effects are infrequent. The major interest in the neuroendocrine effects of psychotropic drugs is their ability to modify hormone secretion, especially prolactin and growth hormones. Studies are reviewed in which the effects of these drugs on hormone secretion have been used to test hypotheses about biochemical abnormalities which may be present in psychiatric patients, the mechanism of action of these drugs, prediction of clinical response to these drugs and subgroups of major diagnostic classifications. These types of inquiries are just in their infancy. Major advances can be expected in future years.