Hyperprolactinaemia: Assessment and Management
Assessment includes the person’s symptoms, medication history and prolactin testing interpreted under suitable conditions. Clinicians consider pregnancy where relevant, thyroid or other medical causes, and whether additional investigation is needed. The degree and persistence of…Continue Reading
Hyperprolactinaemia: Bone Health
Sustained prolactin elevation can sometimes suppress reproductive hormones, which may affect bone health over time. The relationship depends on duration, hormonal consequences and other risk factors. An isolated raised result does not by itself establish…Continue Reading
Hyperprolactinaemia: Reproductive and Sexual Effects
Elevated prolactin can affect reproductive hormone regulation. Possible consequences include menstrual changes, reduced fertility, breast milk production outside expected circumstances, breast enlargement and sexual difficulties. Symptoms vary, and not every person with an elevated level…Continue Reading
Hyperprolactinaemia: Medication-Related Elevation
Some antipsychotics raise prolactin more readily than others. Risperidone, paliperidone and several first-generation agents are important examples. Partial agonists often have a different pattern, but the exact effect depends on the medicine and individual circumstances.…Continue Reading
Hyperprolactinaemia: Prolactin Regulation
Prolactin is produced by the anterior pituitary and has several functions, including supporting milk production. Its regulation differs from many pituitary hormones because dopamine provides an important ongoing inhibitory influence. Blocking D2 receptors can remove…Continue Reading
Weight Gain: Prevention and Management
Prevention begins with discussing likely effects, obtaining appropriate baseline measures and reviewing changes early. Practical support may include nutrition advice, manageable activity, sleep assessment and help overcoming financial or environmental barriers. Plans should be realistic…Continue Reading
Weight Gain: Metabolic Consequences
Weight gain can contribute to insulin resistance, diabetes risk and cardiovascular burden, but it is not the only determinant of metabolic health. Some drug effects on glucose and lipids may occur without large visible weight…Continue Reading
Weight Gain: Differences Between Medicines
Antipsychotics differ in their average effects on weight and metabolism. Olanzapine and clozapine are associated with substantial weight and metabolic burdens, while some other medicines have lower average effects. Lower risk does not mean no…Continue Reading
Weight Gain: Receptor Mechanisms
Several receptor systems are implicated in antipsychotic-related appetite and metabolic effects. H1 histamine blockade and 5-HT2C effects are relevant to appetite regulation. Muscarinic M3-related mechanisms have been investigated in insulin secretion. Other neural and peripheral…Continue Reading
Weight Gain: Appetite Changes
Some antipsychotics can increase hunger, food cravings or the difficulty of feeling satisfied after eating. A person may notice a clear change soon after treatment begins or exposure increases. These experiences can be biologically influenced…Continue Reading