What are the pituitary hormones and what do they do?
ACTH targets the Adrenal glands. It regulates adrenal cortisol production TSH targets the Thyroid gland. It regulates thyroid hormone production LH, FSH targets the Ovaries and testes. They regulate reproduction, sexual function GH (growth hormone) targets the Whole body. It regulates bones, growth, body composition Prolactin regulates breast milk production ADH (vasopressin) targets the Kidney. It regulates water, salt balance The answer to this question about pituitary tumors was developed by Mary Lee Vance, M.D., Professor of Medicine and Neurosurgery at the University of Virginia. Dr. Vance is an endocrinologist specializing in the treatment of pituitary diseases.
Pituitary Hormone Target Organ Regulates ACTH Adrenal glands Adrenal cortisol production TSH Thyroid gland Thyroid hormone production LH, FSH Ovaries, testes Reproduction, sexual function GH (growth hormone) Whole body, bones Growth, body composition Prolactin Breast Milk production ADH (vasopressin) Kidney Water, salt balance
Pituitary Hormone Target Organ Regulates ACTH Adrenal glands Adrenal cortisol production TSH Thyroid gland Thyroid hormone production LH, FSH Ovaries, testes Reproduction, sexual function GH (growth hormone) Whole body, bones Growth, body composition Prolactin Breast Milk production ADH (vasopressin) Kidney Water balance ACTH deficiency: this hormone stimulates the adrenal glands to produce cortisol. Cortisol is necessary for life. Lack of adequate cortisol causes fatigue, weight loss, nausea, vomiting, low blood pressure and ultimately shock and death. TSH deficiency: this hormone stimulates the thyroid gland to produce thyroid hormone. Low thyroid hormone causes fatigue (loss of energy), weight gain, constipation and memory problems. Thyroid hormone is one of the 2 pituitary controlled hormones that are necessary for life. LH and FSH deficiency: these hormones control the reproductive system and sexual function.
