Effect of clomipramine and lithium on fenfluramine-induced hormone release in major depression

Biol Psychiatry. 1992 May 15;31(10):975-83. doi: 10.1016/0006-3223(92)90091-d.

Abstract

Prolactin (PRL) and cortisol responses to oral administration of d-1 fenfluramine hydrochloride (60 mg) and placebo were examined in patients with endogenous major depressive disorder on three separate occasions: prior to treatment with clomipramine (CMI), after 4 weeks of CMI administration (175-250) mg/day), and 3 weeks after addition of lithium (Li) carbonate (serum level 0.5-0.9 mmol) to the treatment regimen. CMI significantly increased baseline PRL levels which were further elevated following Li supplementation. PRL response to fenfluramine (minus elevated baseline PRL levels) but not to placebo, was significantly increased by CMI administration, reflected over the 6-hr time course examined and in peak minus baseline values. Following addition of Li, the degree of enhancement was diminished although the peak minus baseline value remained significant relative to the pretreatment response. Cortisol levels were not increased by fenfluramine and were not altered by CMI or CMI + Li administration. The effect of CMI extends previous observations regarding the action of antidepressant treatment on serotenergically mediated hormone release. Methodological considerations relevant to the effect of CMI + Li are discussed.

Publication types

  • Clinical Trial
  • Randomized Controlled Trial
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Bipolar Disorder / blood
  • Bipolar Disorder / drug therapy*
  • Bipolar Disorder / psychology
  • Clomipramine / therapeutic use*
  • Depressive Disorder / blood
  • Depressive Disorder / drug therapy*
  • Depressive Disorder / psychology
  • Double-Blind Method
  • Drug Therapy, Combination
  • Female
  • Fenfluramine*
  • Humans
  • Lithium / therapeutic use*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Prolactin / blood*
  • Psychiatric Status Rating Scales
  • Serotonin / physiology

Substances

  • Fenfluramine
  • Serotonin
  • Prolactin
  • Lithium
  • Clomipramine