Menstrual disturbance and galactorrhea in people taking conventional antipsychotic medications

Exp Clin Psychopharmacol. 2006 Nov;14(4):459-60. doi: 10.1037/1064-1297.14.4.459.

Abstract

Endocrine disturbances are emerging as major side effects of antipsychotic medications. Of particular note is the profile of menstrual disturbance and galactorrhea as a consequence of hyperprolactinemia (A. Weick & P. M. Haddad, 2003), a sequela of antidopaminergic action at the hypothalamopituitary axis. Research into the clinical aspects of this sensitive issue is sparse. The authors completed a cross-sectional descriptive study of 50 patients on conventional antipsychotic medications. The prevalence of menstrual disturbance was 54%, and the prevalence of amenorrhea was 12%. Symptoms of galactorrhea were present in 32% of patients. A history of pregnancy and childbirth was noted to be significantly associated with the development of galactorrhea (p = .01). The authors hypothesized that pregnancy and lactation might sensitize the hypothalamopituitary axis for further development of hyperprolactinemia due to medications.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Amenorrhea / chemically induced
  • Antipsychotic Agents / adverse effects*
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Female
  • Galactorrhea / chemically induced*
  • Humans
  • Menstrual Cycle / drug effects*
  • Middle Aged
  • Pregnancy

Substances

  • Antipsychotic Agents