If your lab shows a high prolactin level, you probably wonder what you can actually do about it. The good news is that most cases are treatable with everyday medicines or minor procedures. Below we break down the main options in plain language so you can decide what fits your life.
The first line of defense is usually a dopamine‑agonist drug. These pills tell your brain to stop making too much prolactin. The two most common names you’ll see are cabergoline and bromocriptine. Cabergoline works once or twice a week for many people, while bromocriptine is taken daily.
Both medicines have similar goals: lower prolactin, shrink any tiny tumors (called microadenomas) that might be causing the spike, and bring back normal hormone balance. Side effects are usually mild – occasional nausea or light‑headedness – and often fade after a few weeks.
If you can’t tolerate dopamine agonists, your doctor might suggest a short course of quinagolide or even low‑dose estrogen blockers, but these are less common. Always tell your pharmacist about other meds you take; some antidepressants and blood pressure drugs can interfere with prolactin control.
About 10‑15 % of people have a larger tumor (macroadenoma) that doesn’t shrink enough with pills. In those cases, an ENT surgeon or neurosurgeon will discuss transsphenoidal surgery – a minimally invasive operation through the nose to remove the growth.
The procedure is short and most patients go home within a day. Success rates are high when the tumor is well‑defined, and prolactin levels often drop dramatically afterward. Recovery includes a few weeks of hormone monitoring, but many folks feel normal again quickly.
Radiation therapy is a backup if surgery can’t remove everything or if the tumor comes back later. It’s less common because it takes months to see an effect on prolactin.
Besides meds and surgery, lifestyle tweaks help keep hormones steady. Regular sleep, balanced meals, and stress‑relief activities (like walking or yoga) reduce cortisol spikes that can indirectly raise prolactin. Cutting back on alcohol and avoiding high‑dose estrogen supplements also makes a difference.
Finally, keep an eye on follow‑up labs. Most doctors check prolactin every 3–6 months after starting treatment, then space out visits once levels stay normal. If you notice new headaches, vision changes, or menstrual irregularities, call your provider right away – they may need to adjust the dose or explore other options.
In short, hyperprolactinaemia is usually manageable with a pill, and surgery is a safe fallback for stubborn cases. Talk openly with your doctor about side effects, timing, and any concerns you have; the right plan can bring your hormones back to balance without major hassle.
This article explores various treatment methods available for Hyperprolactinaemia, ranging from medications to possible surgical interventions. It aims to present an informative and human-friendly guide on addressing this hormone condition. Readers will find practical tips, interesting facts, and in-depth insights into the treatments available to manage and treat Hyperprolactinaemia effectively.
