Hyperprolactinaemia Treatment Options – Meds, Surgery & More
If you’ve been diagnosed with hyperprolactinaemia, the first thing you probably wonder is how to bring your prolactin levels back to normal. The good news? You have several practical paths to choose from, and most people find relief without drastic measures.
Medication Choices
The go‑to solution for most patients is medication. Doctors usually start you on dopamine agonists like cabergoline or bromocriptine. These drugs work by mimicking dopamine, a brain chemical that naturally keeps prolactin in check. You’ll typically take them once or twice a day, and many people notice lower levels within weeks.
Side effects are generally mild—think nausea, light‑headedness, or occasional headaches—but they often fade as your body adjusts. If you experience persistent issues, your doctor can tweak the dose or try a different agent. The key is staying in touch with your healthcare provider and reporting how you feel.
For those who can’t tolerate dopamine agonists, other options exist. Some clinicians add hormone‑balancing supplements or recommend lifestyle tweaks that help lower prolactin naturally. While these aren’t replacements for prescription meds, they can boost overall results.
When Surgery Becomes an Option
Surgery is usually a last resort, reserved for people whose tumors (called prolactinomas) don’t shrink with medication or who develop serious side effects. The most common procedure is transsphenoidal surgery, where the surgeon works through the nose to reach the pituitary gland.
It sounds daunting, but modern techniques make it minimally invasive and often successful. Recovery typically takes a week or two, and many patients see immediate drops in prolactin levels afterward. However, surgery does carry risks—like any operation—so it’s worth weighing pros and cons with an endocrinologist.
Even after surgery, some doctors still prescribe low‑dose medication to keep hormone balance stable. Think of it as a safety net while your body settles into its new normal.
Beyond meds and surgery, simple lifestyle habits can support treatment. Regular exercise helps regulate hormones, and managing stress reduces cortisol spikes that can worsen prolactin levels. Aim for balanced meals with plenty of protein, fiber, and healthy fats—these keep blood sugar steady, which in turn supports hormone health.
Sleep matters too. Getting 7‑9 hours a night gives your pituitary gland the downtime it needs to function properly. If you struggle with insomnia, try a wind‑down routine: dim lights, no screens an hour before bed, and perhaps a short meditation.
Finally, keep track of your symptoms. Headaches, vision changes, or unexpected breast discharge should prompt an immediate doctor visit. Regular blood tests will tell you whether your treatment is on target, and they help catch any adjustments early.
In short, treating hyperprolactinaemia starts with medication for most people, moves to surgery only when needed, and is backed up by everyday habits that keep hormones in check. Stay proactive, ask questions, and you’ll find the right mix that works for you.