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Prolactin and neuroleptic drugs
Endocrinology and Metabolism Clinics of North America
|March 1, 1988
Summary
Antipsychotic drugs reliably increase serum prolactin levels in patients with psychosis. Monitoring prolactin may indicate disease processes or how well the medication is working.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Pharmacology
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Antipsychotic medications are a cornerstone in treating psychosis.
- Elevated serum prolactin is a known side effect of many antipsychotic drugs.
- The clinical significance of prolactin elevation in patients on antipsychotics requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the role of serum prolactin as a biomarker in patients undergoing antipsychotic treatment.
- To explore the utility of prolactin levels in reflecting underlying pathophysiology or drug activity.
Main Methods:
- Following serum prolactin levels in patients diagnosed with psychosis.
- Observing changes in prolactin in response to antipsychotic drug administration.
Main Results:
- Serum prolactin levels are consistently elevated by antipsychotic drug use.
- Prolactin levels serve as a measurable indicator during treatment.
Conclusions:
- Serum prolactin elevation is a reliable effect of antipsychotic drugs.
- Further research is warranted to fully understand the clinical and research value of prolactin response to neuroleptic medications.