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Review, 1984

How effective is bromocriptine at lowering prolactin levels?

Bromocriptine is extremely effective at suppressing prolactin and restoring fertility, and improves symptoms in patients with acromegaly and Parkinson's disease. However, benefits reverse when the medication is stopped.

Early or limited evidence Patients with hyperprolactinemia, acromegaly, and Parkinson's disease (literature review of various studies)

What they did

Literature review article summarizing research evidence on bromocriptine, a dopamine receptor agonist, used in patients with high prolactin levels, acromegaly, and Parkinson's disease.

What they found

Bromocriptine extremely effectively suppressed prolactin secretion regardless of cause, restored gonadal function and fertility, and decreased prolactin tumor size. Most patients with acromegaly showed clinical improvement. When added to Parkinson's medications, most patients improved and could reduce their drug doses. All benefits reversed when bromocriptine was stopped.

What it means for you

Bromocriptine is a very effective medication for conditions related to high prolactin, but it only works while taking it. The main limitation is that this is a review from 1984, so newer research may exist.

About the study

Original title
Drugs five years later. Bromocriptine
Authors
Vance ML, Evans WS, Thorner MO
Journal
Annals of internal medicine
Year
1984
Study design
Review
What was tested
Bromocriptine treatment

Topics