The anterior pituitary gland produces the pro-hormone POMC, which is then cleaved again to form adrenocorticotropin (ACTH) and β-lipotropin (β-LPH).
However, no subsequent studies have been published that support these early findings and no receptor has been identified for β-lipotropin.
Evidence shows that β-Lipotropin is metabolized into endorphins that can greatly affect mood and behavior and is thus regarded as a prohormone.
[6] Lipotropin has also, under its alternate name AOD-9604 (Anti-Obesity Drug-9604),[7] been connected with controversies in Australian Rules Football.
Allegations have arisen around the use of the drug and its administration to players of the Essendon Football Club in the Essendon Football Club supplements saga, including weekly administration to players in the 2012 season.
[8] The matters are currently under investigation due to the relationship between Lipotropin and growth hormones, as noted by club medical staff.