1. Home
  2. Health Topics
  3. Search Health Topics
  4. Pituitary gland

Pituitary gland

Top of the page

Location of pituitary gland beneath the brain, with close-up of the gland

The pituitary gland is a small organ located beneath the brain. The pituitary gland produces substances called hormones. These hormones enter the bloodstream and help control many processes of the body.

Current as of: July 29, 2019

Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review: Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Alan C. Dalkin, MD - Endocrinology and Metabolism

Is it an emergency?

If you or someone in your care has chest pains, difficulty breathing, or severe bleeding, it could be a life-threatening emergency. Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number immediately.
If you are concerned about a possible poisoning or exposure to a toxic substance, call Poison Control now at 1-800-567-8911.

Thanks to our partners and endorsers:

Northern HealthBritish Columbia College of Family PhysiciansProvincial Health Services AuthorityVancouver Coastal HealthBritish Columbia Medical Association: Doctors of BCIsland HealthCollege of Pharmacists of British ColumbiaCollege of Physicians and Surgeons of British ColumbiaFraser Health AuthorityCollege of Dietitians of British ColumbiaInterior HealthCollege of Dental Surgeons of British ColumbiaBC Centre for Disease Control