Nasal spray bromocriptine: effects on serum prolactin in puerperal women.

BACKGROUND

The objective of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of a single nasal spray administration of 0.8 mg bromocriptine in reducing PRL serum levels.

METHODS

Eighteen physiologically hyperprolactemic women in the early days of puerperium were randomized to receive nasal bromocriptine or placebo; PRL serum levels were measured by RIA at 45, 30 and 15 minutes before the administration and after the following times: 15, 30, 45, 60, 120, 180, 240, 300, and 480 minutes.

RESULTS

After the administration of bromocriptine serum levels of PRL decreased rapidly; the reduction was statistically significant after 45 minutes. Four hours after the administration mean serum levels of PRL resulted in the normal range (< 20 micrograms/l); at the eighth hour the PRL levels were still normal. No one patient complained of any local or systemic side-effects.

CONCLUSION

Nasal route seems to be an effective and probably safe administration route for bromocriptine.