What other conditions cause prolactin levels to rise?
In some people, high blood levels of prolactin can be traced to causes other than a pituitary tumor. • Prescription drugs Prolactin secretion in the pituitary is normally suppressed by the brain chemical, dopamine. Drugs that block the effects of dopamine at the pituitary or reduce dopamine stores in the brain may cause the pituitary to secrete excess prolactin. These drugs include medicines for psychiatric disorders such as: • Medicines for psychiatric disorders such as haloperidol (Haldol) and serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs, such as Prozac) • metoclopramide (Reglan), used to treat gastroesophageal reflux and nausea. • Some calcium channel blockers, including verapamil • H2 antagonists (cimetidine) • Opiates • Other Pituitary Tumors Other tumors (both pituitary and non-pituitary in origin) arising in or near the pituitary may block the flow of dopamine from the brain to the prolactin-secreting cells leading to hyperprolactinemia. • Hypothyroidism • Kidney disease (renal failure)
