Comparison of four different dosages of injectable bromocriptine retard for puerperal ablactation

The clinical efficacy, tolerance and effect on plasma prolactin levels of four different dosages of intramuscular bromocriptine retard were compared. 108 Chinese puerperas with a mean body weight of 58 kg, who chose not to breast-feed following vaginal delivery, were randomized into four equal groups. The patients in each group were given intramuscular bromocriptine retard: 20, 30, 40 or 50 mg. The injection was well tolerated by all, except for two patients who developed small haematomas at the site of the injection and 2 patients who complained of dizziness. Ablactation occurred in 100% of the patients in the 40 mg group, but was successful in only 92 and 91% of the patients in the 20 and 30 mg groups, respectively. There were two cases of suboptimal response in the 50 mg group, despite marked reduction in plasma prolactin levels. Both these patients had developed moderate breast engorgement before they received the injection. The difference in response among the four groups was not statistically significant. We recommend that the injection be given prior to the development of breast engorgement.