Stimulatory effects of gamma-hydroxybutyric acid on growth hormone and prolactin release in humans.

A dose of 2.5 g of gamma-hydroxybutyric acid (GHB) was administered intravenously to 6 healthy male volunteers. A significant increase in plasma GH was observed at 30, 45, 60 and 90 min after injection. The plasma prolactin level increased significantly at 45 and 60 min after GHB injection. These responses were not found after the saline vehicle injection in the same subjects. It is conceivable that GHB could modify the release of serotonin from the nerve terminals and then stimulate the release of GH and prolactin.