Prolactinoma
1 medicine
A prolactinoma is a benign pituitary tumour that produces too much prolactin, disrupting reproductive hormones in both men and women. It is usually treated with cabergoline, a medicine that suppresses prolactin and shrinks the tumour.
Key facts
- A prolactinoma is a non-cancerous pituitary tumour that secretes excess prolactin, the hormone that normally triggers milk production. It's the most common type of pituitary tumour.
- In women it typically causes irregular or absent periods, unexpected milk discharge, and trouble conceiving; in men it can lower testosterone, causing low libido and erectile difficulties.
- Larger tumours can press on nearby structures, causing headaches and visual disturbances.
- First-line treatment is cabergoline, which suppresses prolactin release and often shrinks the tumour over time.
What raised prolactin actually does
Excess prolactin interferes with the hormones that regulate the reproductive cycle. In women, this usually shows up as irregular or absent periods, unexpected milk discharge (galactorrhoea), and difficulty conceiving. In men, it can reduce testosterone, leading to low libido, erectile difficulties, and, in long-standing cases, thinning bones. When a tumour grows large enough to press on nearby structures, it can also cause headaches and changes in vision.
Bringing prolactin back under control
Most prolactinomas respond well to medication that suppresses prolactin production and often shrinks the tumour at the same time. Cabergoline is the standard first-line agent and is generally well tolerated. It works by mimicking dopamine, the brain's natural brake on prolactin release, so prolactin levels fall and, in many cases, the tumour itself regresses. Women being treated for prolactinoma-related fertility or cycle problems may also benefit from broader women's health support alongside their endocrinologist's care.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor promptly if you notice persistent milky nipple discharge, sudden changes in vision, or severe headaches. Anyone with irregular periods, unexplained infertility, or new erectile difficulties combined with low libido should also ask about a prolactin blood test, since treatment works well once the diagnosis is confirmed.
This page is educational and does not replace advice from a doctor or pharmacist who knows your health history.