The posterior pituitary stores and releases hormones synthesised in the hypothalamus.

The hormones released from the posterior pituitary are:

• ADH (vasopressin)
• Oxytocin

These hormones are synthesised in the hypothalamus and transported down axons to the posterior pituitary.

In contrast, the anterior pituitary synthesises and secretes its own hormones, including:

• ACTH
• TSH
• FSH
• LH
• Growth hormone
• Prolactin

Exam rule: The posterior pituitary releases hypothalamic hormones but does not synthesise them.

Why not the other options?

Adrenocorticotropic hormone: Synthesised and secreted by the anterior pituitary.

Growth hormone: Synthesised and secreted by the anterior pituitary.

Prolactin: Synthesised and secreted by the anterior pituitary.

Thyroid-stimulating hormone: Synthesised and secreted by the anterior pituitary.