Prolactinoma Medication

Updated: Feb 15, 2022
  • Author: Venkatesh Babu Segu, MD, MBBS, DM; Chief Editor: Romesh Khardori, MD, PhD, FACP  more...
  • Print
Medication

Medication Summary

The drugs that are effective in the treatment of hyperprolactinemia are DA agonists. DA is the primary physiologic inhibitor of PRL secretion; however, DA is not used for treatment, because it does not cross the blood-brain barrier. Therefore, drugs that mimic the action of DA on the lactotrophs are used in the medical management of prolactinoma.

Next:

Dopamine agonists

Class Summary

Salutary effects on inhibition of PRL synthesis and secretion. These agents are also effective for reducing tumor size. [46]

Bromocriptine (Parlodel)

DOC for prolactinoma. Bromocriptine is the DA-receptor agonist with the longest record of use for hyperprolactinemia.

Cabergoline (Dostinex)

Now available in the United States for use in prolactinoma. Cabergoline is a long-acting DA agonist with efficacy and adverse effects that are similar to those of BEC.

Quinagolide (CV 205-502)

Specific DA-receptor (type 2) agonist with a relatively long duration of action. Quinagolide is not available in the United States.

Previous