Hyperprolactinaemia is a condition characterized by an elevated level of prolactin in the blood.¹ The consequences of this imbalance are varied but most commonly lead to hypogonadism, resulting in infertility, low libido, decreased bone mass, and, in women, oligomenorrhoea and/or amenorrhoea.¹

Hyperprolactinaemia occurs more frequently in women than men.¹
The prevalence of hyperprolactinaemia varies based on the population under investigation.
It is:^1-3
• 0.4% in the general population
• 9%-17% in women with reproductive diseases
• 16%-30% in women with infertility
• ~ 5% among men who present with impotence or infertility

Prolactin, which is synthesized by the pituitary gland, primarily functions to stimulate and maintain the production of breast milk during pregnancy and breastfeeding.^1,4
When prolactin levels are elevated in either women or men, gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) secretion is inhibited and gonadal function is affected, ultimately leading to infertility.^4,5

Adapted from Kaiser UK, 2012.⁶

Hyperprolactinaemia can arise from pharmacologic, pathologic, physiologic, and idiopathic causes.¹

Prolactinomas are the most common cause of hyperprolactinaemia, which account for approximately 40% of all pituitary tumors.⁷

It is important to be aware that several different types of medications and drugs can cause increased serum prolactin levels.

Adapted from Vilar L., et al and Peña KS., et al.

Please note some of these medications are not available in the UK

Estring (estradiol hemihydrate) prescribing information can be found here
Premarin (oestrogens, conjugated) prescribing information can be found here
Premique (medroxyprogesterone acetate oestrogens, conjugated) prescribing information can be found here​​​​​​