The pituitary gland is a peanut-sized organ located in the brain. The pituitary is sometimes called the master gland because it regulates many aspects of growth, development, and everyday functioning. Its anterior lobe produces six hormones: growth hormone, prolactin (which stimulates breasts to produce milk), and four that stimulate other glands. The posterior lobe produces antidiuretic hormone, which acts on the kidneys, and oxytocin, which plays a role in childbirth.
Acromegaly is a rare condition in adults in which the pituitary gland produces too much growth hormone, yielding excessive growth. However, an adult cannot grow taller, because vertical growth stops at the end of adolescence when the bone ends seal. Therefore, the excess growth hormone causes bones to thicken and all other structures and organs grow larger. Overproduction of the growth hormone is usually caused by a pituitary tumor.
Commonly Prescribed (On-Label) Drugs: Bromocriptine, Octreotide, Pegvisomant
Off-Label Prescription Drugs Breakthrough Options: Cabergoline, Pergolide
Hyperprolactinemia is a disorder in which the level of the hormone prolactin is elevated in the blood. The primary role of prolactin is to enhance the development of the breasts during pregnancy to induce lactation when the baby is born. However, prolactin also binds to specific receptors in the gonads, lymphoid cells, and liver. Hyperprolactinemia often leads to reproductive dysfunction and galactorrhea.
Commonly Prescribed (On-Label) Drugs: Bromocriptine, Cabergoline
Off-Label Prescription Drug Breakthrough Option: Pergolide
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