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Enhanced growth hormone responses to pyridostigmine challenge in patients with panic disorder

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  03 January 2018

J. M. Cooney ,
J. V. Lucey  and
T. G. Dinan
J. M. Cooney*
Affiliation:
Department of Psychological Medicine, St Bartholomew's Hospital, London
J. V. Lucey
Affiliation:
Department of Psychological Medicine, St Bartholomew's Hospital, London
T. G. Dinan
Affiliation:
Department of Psychological Medicine, St Bartholomew's Hospital, London
*
Dr. J. M. Cooney, Department of Psychological Medicine, St Bartholomew's Hospital, West Smithfield, London ECIA 7BE. Fax: 0171-601 7969
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Abstract

Background

Panic disorder is associated with neuroendocrinological abnormalities, some of which overlap with those seen in major depression. To date, there has been little assessment of the role of cholinergic mechanisms in this disorder.

Method

Sixteen patients with DSM–III–R panic disorder and an age and gender-matched comparison group were administered 120 mg of the acetylcholinesterase inhibitor pyridostigmine. Growth hormone (GH) responses over a three-hour period were monitored.

Results

Mean ΔGH, the difference between basal and the maximum pyridostigmine levels, was significantly greater in patients with panic disorder than in the comparison group.

Conclusions

This may reflect increased cholinergic responsivity in panic disorder.

Type
Papers
Information
The British Journal of Psychiatry , Volume 170 , Issue 2 , February 1997 , pp. 159 - 161
Copyright
Copyright © 1997 The Royal College of Psychiatrists 

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