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Hyperprolactinemia associated with psychotropics--a review
Subramoniam Madhusoodanan1, Suprit Parida, Carolina Jimenez
1St. John's Episcopal Hospital, Rockaway, New York 11691, USA. sdanan@ehs.org
Human Psychopharmacology
|June 4, 2010
Summary
Psychotropic medications, especially antipsychotics, frequently cause hyperprolactinemia. Clinicians should monitor prolactin levels and consider alternative treatments when managing this condition.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Endocrinology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Hyperprolactinemia is a potential side effect of various psychotropic medications.
- Antipsychotics, particularly typical agents and risperidone, are significant causes of drug-induced hyperprolactinemia.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the pathophysiology, offending medications, assessment, and management of psychotropic-induced hyperprolactinemia.
Main Methods:
- A literature review was conducted using major databases (PubMed, MEDLINE, PsychINFO, Cochrane) from 1976 to 2008.
- Search terms included prolactin, hyperprolactinemia, and various classes of psychotropic drugs.
Main Results:
- Antipsychotics are more likely to elevate prolactin levels than other psychotropics.
- Typical antipsychotics demonstrate a higher propensity for causing hyperprolactinemia compared to atypical agents.
- Management strategies involve medication adjustment, hormonal support, or the addition of dopamine agonists or aripiprazole.
Conclusions:
- Healthcare providers must remain vigilant for hyperprolactinemia in patients using these medications.
- Monitoring prolactin levels and excluding other causes are crucial in suspected cases of drug-induced hyperprolactinemia.
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