Abstract

THE PITUITARY POWERHOUSE: PHARMACOLOGY AND THERAPEUTIC APPLICATIONS OF ITS HORMONES

Nikhil M. Khatwani*, Yash P. Kamble, Atish B. Kawade, Prajwal N. Bambole, Chetna P. Hiwase, Vrushabh N. Hete, Dr. Kamlesh J. Wadher

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Abstract

The pituitary gland – often called the “master gland” – secretes hormones that regulate growth, metabolism, stress responses, reproduction, and water balance. These hormones include growth hormone (GH), prolactin (PRL), adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), vasopressin (ADH), and oxytocin. The pituitary gland plays an important role in the regulation of growth, differentiation and function of cells, including immunocytes. We highlight major therapies that mimic or modulate pituitary hormones – for example, recombinant GH (somatropin) for GH deficiency, desmopressin for diabetes insipidus, dopamine agonists (bromocriptine, cabergoline) for hyperprolactinemia, and GnRH analogs (leuprolide) for sex hormone disorders. Emerging advances, long-acting formulations, and challenges in hormone drug design are discussed, providing a detailed overview for pharmacy students and healthcare professionals.

Keywords: Pituitary gland, Growth hormone, Adrenocorticotropic hormone, Thyroidstimulating hormone, Luteinizing hormone, Follicle-stimulating hormone.