Clinical Considerations for Prolactin Levels During Breastfeeding

Medication Effects on Prolactin Levels

• Clonidine may reduce prolactin secretion and potentially reduce milk production in early postpartum period 2
• Bromocriptine, a dopamine agonist used to treat hyperprolactinemia, suppresses lactation and should be avoided in women who wish to breastfeed 1

Special Clinical Scenarios

• In women with hereditary angioedema, lactation might increase edematous attacks due to elevated prolactin levels 3, 4, 5
• Ceasing lactation might reduce attack frequency by decreasing serum prolactin levels in these patients 6

Diagnostic Considerations

• The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and other guideline societies should consider the potential for macroprolactinemia (high molecular weight prolactin aggregates) as a cause of elevated prolactin measurements 1