WHAT IS KNOWN AND OBJECTIVE

Metformin was found to normalize secretory function of overactive pituitary cells. Its effect on circulating thyrotropin levels was more pronounced in women receiving exogenous vitamin D. The aim of the current study was to investigate whether vitamin D status determines the impact of metformin on prolactin levels in premenopausal women with hyperprolactinaemia.

METHODS

The study population consisted of three groups of women with prediabetes and elevated prolactin levels: vitamin D-naïve women with vitamin D insufficiency (group 1; n = 19), women receiving vitamin D preparations because of vitamin D deficiency (group 2 n = 20), as well as vitamin D-naïve women with normal vitamin D status (group 3 n = 23). All participants were then treated with metformin (2.55-3 g daily). Circulating levels of glucose, insulin, prolactin, thyrotropin, free thyroid hormones, gonadotropins, estradiol, calcium and 25-hydroxyvitamin were determined at baseline and six months later.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

At baseline, prolactin levels were higher in group 1 than in the remaining groups of patients. Although metformin decreased glucose levels and improved insulin sensitivity in all treatment groups, this effect was more pronounced in groups 2 and 3. Only in subjects with 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels within the reference range, metformin reduced prolactin levels. The impact on prolactin levels correlated with 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels and with the improvement in insulin sensitivity. The drug produced a neutral effect on circulating levels of thyrotropin, free thyroid hormones, gonadotropins, estradiol, calcium and 25-hydroxyvitamin D.

WHAT IS NEW AND THE CONCLUSION

The results of the current study suggest that the impact of metformin on secretory function of overactive lactotropes depends on the vitamin D status of patients.