GH antagonizes the action of insulin at the postreceptor level in skeletal muscle and adipose tissue (but not the liver). Hypophysectomy (removal of the pituitary gland) can improve diabetic management because GH, like cortisol, decreases insulin sensitivity. Because GH produces insulin insensitivity, it is considered a diabetogenic hormone. When secreted in excess, GH can cause diabetes mellitus, and the insulin levels necessary to maintain normal metabolism increase. Excessive insulin secretion resulting from an excess of GH can cause damage to pancreatic beta cells. In the absence of GH, insulin secretion declines. Thus, normal levels of GH are required for normal pancreatic function and insulin secretion.