Naltrexone Does Not Affect Adrenal Steroidogenesis in Women with Hirsutism/Oligomenorrhea

Authors

Jeffrey A. Jackson
Thomas J. Wincek
Jose F. Pliego

Abstract

We studied the effects of the oral opiate receptor antagonist naltrexone on basal and ACTH-stimulated adrenal steroid levels in six women with hirsutism/oligomenorrhea and preexisting elevation of serum dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate. One of the six patients met the criteria for partial 3-β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase deficiency. No statistical differences were detected in steroid levels or ratios before and after 14 days of 50 mg/day of naltrexone. Thus, we find no support for the hypothesis that opioid peptides acting through opiate receptors (predominantly μ subtype) modulate the abnormal adrenal androgen secretion seen in these women with hirsutism/oligomenorrhea.

Recommended Citation

Jackson, Jeffrey A.; Wincek, Thomas J.; and Pliego, Jose F. (1987) "Naltrexone Does Not Affect Adrenal Steroidogenesis in Women with Hirsutism/Oligomenorrhea," Henry Ford Hospital Medical Journal : Vol. 35 : No. 4 , 194-197.
Available at: https://scholarlycommons.henryford.com/hfhmedjournal/vol35/iss4/7