DIRECT ACTION OF METYRAPONE ON BRAIN - IMPLICATION IN FEEDING

WHILE the inhibitory effect of metyrapone on the biosynthesis of adren al corticosteroid hormones is well known, the drug has not been tested for central actions. The present study is aimed at finding out the di rect central action of metyrapone, if any, employing feeding behaviour as a test parameter. Low doses of metyrapone (10-1000 ng) administere d via an i.c.v. route reduced the food intake in a dose dependent mann er; the effect was functionally antagonized by concomitant administrat ion of anti-CRF antisera. The results reveal for the first time, that metyrapone might be capable of exerting a direct action on the adrenal cortex.