Acta Endocrinol (Copenh). 1983 Aug; 103(4): 469-72.

Suppression of electroacupuncture(EA)-induced beta-endorphin and ACTH release by hydrocortisone in man. Absence of effects on EA-induced anaesthesia.

Masala A, Satta G, Alagna S, Zolo TA, Rovasio PP, Rassu S.

Auricular electroacupuncture (EA) increased plasma ACTH and beta-endorphin levels significantly in 10 patients receiving EA as an analgesic aid during surgery. Pre-treatment with iv hydrocortisone (200 mg) completely suppressed both ACTH and beta-endorphin release in response to EA without significantly affecting EA anaesthesia in 6 other patients and in a patient with Addison's disease.