Ranitidine-induced galactorrhea in a postmenopausal female

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Pharmacology
• Reproductive Medicine

Background:

• Hyperprolactinemia, characterized by elevated prolactin levels, can manifest with various symptoms.
• Drug-induced hyperprolactinemia is a known but infrequently reported adverse effect of certain medications.
• Galactorrhea and breast engorgement are clinical signs associated with elevated prolactin levels.

Observation:

• A 46-year-old postmenopausal female presented with galactorrhea and painful breast engorgement.
• The patient's symptoms were temporally associated with exposure to ranitidine.
• Physical examination confirmed galactorrhea and breast tenderness.

Findings:

• The case suggests a potential link between ranitidine use and the development of hyperprolactinemia.
• This presentation of galactorrhea as an adverse effect of ranitidine is rare, with limited existing literature.
• To the best of our knowledge, this is the first reported case of ranitidine-induced hyperprolactinemia presenting with these specific symptoms.

Implications:

• This case highlights the importance of considering drug-induced hyperprolactinemia in patients presenting with relevant symptoms.
• Clinicians should be aware of ranitidine as a potential causative agent for hyperprolactinemia, particularly in susceptible populations.
• Further research may be warranted to elucidate the mechanism and prevalence of ranitidine-induced hyperprolactinemia.