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Treating prolactinomas with dopamine agonists: always worth the gamble?
Sean Noronha1, Victoria Stokes2, Niki Karavitaki1
1Oxford Centre for Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
Endocrine
|September 5, 2015
Summary
Dopamine agonists, used for prolactinomas, may cause impulse control disorders. Clinicians should monitor patients for these rare but serious side effects.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Neurology
Background:
- Dopamine agonists are the primary treatment for prolactinomas.
- These medications are generally safe and effective.
- A link between dopamine agonist use and impulse control disorders (ICDs) is recognized in neurology.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the literature on dopamine agonist-induced ICDs in endocrine patients.
- To discuss the clinical implications of this adverse effect.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of clinical case reports and comparative studies.
- Analysis of emerging evidence in endocrine patient populations.
Main Results:
- Evidence suggests dopamine agonists may also cause ICDs in endocrine patients.
- This association has been identified through case reports and some comparative studies.
Conclusions:
- Clinicians must be aware of the potential for uncommon but serious adverse effects like ICDs.
- Vigilance is required when prescribing dopamine agonists for prolactinomas.
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