Hyperprolactinaemia Medication: What Works and How to Use It
If your lab showed high prolactin levels, chances are your doctor mentioned medication. The goal is simple – lower prolactin enough to stop unwanted symptoms like breast milk production, irregular periods, or infertility. Most doctors start with a class of drugs called dopamine agonists because they tell the pituitary gland to chill out.
First‑Line Drugs: Cabergoline and Bromocriptine
Cabergoline is the go‑to for many clinicians. It’s taken once or twice a week, which makes it easy to remember. Most patients feel better within a few weeks, and the dose can be tweaked based on blood tests. Common side effects are mild – think nausea, light‑headness, or occasional headaches. If those pop up, taking the pill with food usually helps.
Bromocriptine is older but still effective. It’s taken two to three times a day, so it needs more routine. Some people get stomach upset, dizziness, or fatigue at first, but those often fade as the body adjusts. Your doctor may start you on a low dose and slowly increase it until prolactin levels are in range.
Other Options When First‑Line Doesn’t Cut It
If cabergoline or bromocriptine don’t lower prolactin enough, quinagolide is an alternative. It works similarly but may cause fewer nausea issues for some folks. Another route is surgery to remove a pituitary tumor, but that’s usually a last resort when medication fails.
In rare cases where dopamine agonists can’t be used – for example, if you’re pregnant or have severe heart problems – doctors might try estrogen‑blocking pills or other hormone therapies to manage symptoms. These aren’t as direct at lowering prolactin, but they help control the side effects.
Whatever drug you end up on, regular blood tests are key. Your doctor will check prolactin levels every few weeks early on, then maybe every few months once things stabilize. This lets them fine‑tune your dose and catch any potential issues early.
Here’s a quick checklist to keep handy:
- Take the medication exactly as prescribed – don’t skip doses.
- Note any side effects and tell your doctor, especially if they’re severe or don’t go away.
- Schedule blood tests on time; they guide dose changes.
- Avoid sudden changes in diet or alcohol that can worsen nausea.
- If you feel dizzy, get up slowly to prevent falls.
Most people see a big improvement within 2–3 months. If symptoms linger after the dose is stable, ask your doctor about imaging tests to rule out a larger tumor or other underlying issues.
Bottom line: hyperprolactinaemia meds are usually straightforward, but success depends on sticking to the plan and keeping communication open with your healthcare team. With the right drug and regular monitoring, you can get prolactin back in balance and feel normal again.