Hypothalamic-pituitary function following bromocriptine therapy in patients with prolactinomas.

Bromocriptine in a dose of 5 mg daily was given to 18 patients with prolactinomas to promote resumption of menses, to overcome infertility and as a primary treatment for the tumor. Serum prolactin levels fell to within the normal range in 95% of the patients by 12 weeks of therapy. The prolactin response to TRH stimulation was significantly less than before treatment; however, the percent maximum increment was significantly higher. There was no significant change in pituitary reserve of the other hormones. Seven pregnancies occurred during treatment. All the pregnancies have been progressing normally. All patients have already been delivered of healthy babies, including one set of twins. It is suggested that follow-up studies of the various pituitary hormones be conducted on patients on maintenance bromocriptine treatment. In addition, bromocriptine treatment might be used to promote fertility in patients with prolactin-secreting microadenomas.