Detecting hyperprolactinaemia in mental health patients

Hyperprolactinaemia is associated with drugs used in mental health to treat psychosis (antipsychotics) and affects a significant number of service users. The condition causes endocrine disturbances, including sexual dysfunction, amenorrhoea and infertility. In the longer term, service users are also at risk of disabling conditions such as osteoporosis. Early detection of hyperprolactinaemia enables safer use of antipsychotic drugs. This article focuses on neuroendocrine adverse effects and how this problem can be addressed.