Prolactin is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland. The pituitary is a small organ at the base of the brain. Prolactin’s main function is to produce milk after childbirth.
It is also linked with fertility, menstruation, fat metabolism, fluid regulation, and sexual satisfaction in both men and women. An abnormal level does not necessarily signify a problem if you have no symptoms.
Read more about the prolactin blood test.
High levels of prolactin can lead to insulin resistance. Women of childbearing age tend to have higher prolactin levels than men, and the level varies with the menstrual cycle. Stress caused by illness, chest trauma, seizures, lung cancer, nipple stimulation and marijuana use may mildly elevate prolactin.
Some medications elevate prolactin. These include estrogen, tricyclic antidepressants, risperidone, opiates, amphetamines, hypertension drugs (reserpine, verapamil, methyldopa), and medications that are used to treat gastroesophageal reflux (cimetidine).
Medications that can lower prolactin levels include dopamine, levodopa, and ergot alkaloid derivatives.
This test requires a blood draw, which can be done at your local clinic. It will be analysed by an accredited lab, such as Karolinska, Aleris or Unilabs. The first results are usually available within 48h.
What happens next?
The lab sends the results to your personal dashboard, with comments from both a doctor and a nutritionist. If results are abnormal, we recommend seeing a doctor and, if appropriate, booking an appointment with a Nordic Wellth nutrition lifestyle specialist.