Hyperprolactinemia means you have higher than normal levels of a hormone called prolactin in your blood. Prolactin is made by a pea-sized gland at the base of your brain called the pituitary gland. This hormone’s main job is to help women produce breast milk after childbirth.

Normally, your body tightly controls the amount of prolactin you have. But sometimes, things can go awry and prolactin levels rise. When this happens, it can cause some problems.

What is Hyperprolactinemia Meaning?

Hyperprolactinemia is a medical condition where you have too much prolactin in your blood. Prolactin is a hormone made by the pituitary gland in your brain that helps women produce breast milk after childbirth. In hyperprolactinemia, something disrupts the normal control of prolactin, causing high levels.

What is Prolactin?

Prolactin is a hormone produced in a pea-sized gland at the base of your brain called the pituitary gland. It plays several important roles in your body, but its main function depends on your sex and reproductive stage:

Pregnancy and breastfeeding: For women, prolactin is essential for preparing your body for breastfeeding after childbirth. It signals the mammary glands (breast tissue) to produce breast milk. During pregnancy, prolactin levels rise to help ensure milk production is ready when your baby arrives.

Men and non-pregnant women: In men and women who are not pregnant or breastfeeding, prolactin levels are generally much lower. It still has some functions, though, like helping to regulate your immune system and fluids in your body.

What is the Difference Between Hyperprolactinemia and Prolactinoma?

Hyperprolactinemia and prolactinoma are related, but they’re not exactly the same thing. Here’s a breakdown to clear things up:

Hyperprolactinemia: This is a medical condition where you have too much prolactin in your blood. Prolactin, as you know, is a hormone made by the pituitary gland that plays a role in reproduction and other bodily functions. In hyperprolactinemia, something disrupts the normal control of prolactin, causing high levels.

Prolactinoma: This is the most common cause of hyperprolactinemia. It’s a small, noncancerous tumor in the pituitary gland that overproduces prolactin. So, if you have a prolactinoma, it’s likely to lead to hyperprolactinemia.

Here’s an analogy to help understand the difference:

For example: Imagine your body is a factory, and prolactin is a product being made.

Hyperprolactinemia: This is like having too much of the product in storage. There could be several reasons for this, like a malfunctioning machine (prolactinoma) producing too much, or a problem with storage (other medical conditions).

Prolactinoma: This is specifically a malfunctioning machine (the tumor) that’s churning out too much prolactin.

What are the Types of Hyperprolactinemia?

There isn’t one single type of hyperprolactinemia, but doctors categorize it based on the underlying cause. Here’s a breakdown of the main types:

Prolactinoma: This is the most common cause, where a small, noncancerous tumor in the pituitary gland produces too much prolactin.

Other medical conditions: Sometimes, health problems like hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) or chronic kidney disease can disrupt how your body controls prolactin, leading to high levels.

Medications: Certain medications can interfere with the normal production of prolactin, causing a temporary increase in its levels.

Who Does Hyperprolactinemia Affect?

Hyperprolactinemia can affect anyone, but it’s more common in certain groups:

Women: Women, particularly those in their childbearing years (age 15-45), are diagnosed with hyperprolactinemia more often than men. This is because fluctuations in hormones related to pregnancy and menstruation can sometimes lead to temporary increases in prolactin levels. However, if the high levels persist, it could be hyperprolactinemia.

People with pituitary tumors: A small, noncancerous tumor in the pituitary gland called a prolactinoma is the most common cause of hyperprolactinemia. These tumors can develop in anyone, but they seem to occur slightly more often in women.

People with certain medical conditions: Some health problems, like hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) or chronic kidney disease, can disrupt the normal control of prolactin, leading to high levels in both men and women.

People taking certain medications: Certain medications can interfere with prolactin production, causing a temporary increase in its levels. This can happen in both men and women.

How Common are Hyperprolactinemia in Pakistan?

Hyperprolactinemia, a condition characterized by elevated prolactin levels in the blood, is relatively common in Pakistan. A few key points:

A study conducted at Aziz Fatimah Hospital in Faisalabad found that 61.4% of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) subjects had hyperprolactinemia, compared to 36.4% of controls. The study also found a significant positive association between hyperprolactinemia and infertility in PCOS patients.

Levosulpiride, a prokinetic agent commonly used for dyspepsia in Pakistan, has been reported to cause hyperprolactinemia as a side effect. Two cases were reported where patients developed hyperprolactinemia after taking levosulpiride for 3-4 months, with prolactin levels normalizing after discontinuing the drug.

What are the Causes of the Hyperprolactinemia?

The causes of hyperprolactinemia include various factors such as tumors, medications, and other health conditions.

Pituitary tumor (prolactinoma): This is the most common culprit. It’s a small, noncancerous tumor in the pituitary gland that overproduces prolactin.

Other medical conditions: Certain health issues can disrupt prolactin control, leading to high levels. Examples include hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) and chronic kidney disease.

Medications: Some medications can interfere with how your body makes prolactin, causing a temporary increase.

What are the Symptoms of Hyperprolactinemia ?

Women:

Irregular periods: This can include infrequent periods, very light periods, or periods that come at unpredictable times.

Milky nipple discharge (galactorrhea): This can happen even if you’re not pregnant or breastfeeding.

Difficulty getting pregnant (infertility): High prolactin levels can interfere with ovulation (egg release).

Decreased sex drive (libido): Prolactin can affect hormone levels that influence sex drive.

Men:

Erectile dysfunction: Trouble getting or keeping an erection.

Decreased sex drive (libido): Similar to women, prolactin can affect hormones related to sex drive.

Breast enlargement (gynecomastia): In some cases, men with hyperprolactinemia may develop enlarged breast tissue.

Vision problems: A large pituitary tumor can press on the optic nerve, affecting vision.

What are the Hyperprolactinemia Complications ?

Hyperprolactinemia can lead to complications if left untreated, but luckily they are often manageable. Here’s a breakdown of possible issues:

Infertility: In both men and women, high prolactin levels can disrupt hormone balance and make it difficult to conceive.

Bone loss (osteoporosis): Reduced estrogen and testosterone production (caused by high prolactin) can weaken bones, increasing the risk of fractures.

Vision problems: A large prolactinoma (tumor in the pituitary gland) can grow and press on the optic nerve, causing vision problems like headaches or sight loss.

Pregnancy complications: If you develop hyperprolactinemia during pregnancy, it can rarely lead to problems like high blood pressure or vision changes.

How and Where Hyperprolactinemia be Diagnosed?

Hyperprolactinemia is diagnosed through a combination of factors:

Symptoms: Doctors will first ask about your symptoms, such as irregular periods, milky nipple discharge, or trouble getting pregnant.

Blood test: This is the main tool for diagnosing hyperprolactinemia. It measures the level of prolactin in your blood. A doctor might recommend repeating the test to confirm high levels.

Imaging tests (optional): In some cases, if your prolactin levels are very high or the doctor suspects a tumor, they might recommend imaging tests like an MRI scan of the brain. This helps visualize the pituitary gland and see if there’s a tumor present.

Here’s where you can get diagnosed:

Hospitals: Most hospitals will have the facilities and expertise to diagnose hyperprolactinemia.

Clinics: Some specialized clinics, like endocrinology clinics that focus on hormones, might be able to diagnose and treat hyperprolactinemia.

What are the Treatments Available for the Hyperprolactinemia?

Hyperprolactinemia treatment depends on the cause and severity. Here’s a breakdown of the most common options:

Medication: This is usually the first line of treatment. Medications called dopamine agonists work by mimicking the effects of dopamine, a natural brain chemical that helps regulate prolactin levels. These can shrink tumors and lower prolactin production.

Surgery: If medication doesn’t work or there’s a large tumor, surgery might be an option.  This is typically a minimally invasive procedure to remove the tumor in the pituitary gland.

Radiation therapy: This is rarely used for hyperprolactinemia due to potential side effects. It might be considered for very large tumors or in situations where surgery isn’t suitable.

Addressing underlying condition: If another medical condition is causing high prolactin levels, treating that condition can also help lower prolactin. For example, medication for hypothyroidism can help regulate prolactin production.

Which tablets are Available for Treating Hyperprolactinemia in Pakistan ?

In Pakistan, the two most commonly prescribed tablets for treating hyperprolactinemia are bromocriptine and cabergoline. These medications belong to the class of dopamine agonists and are effective in reducing prolactin levels and managing the associated symptoms of hyperprolactinemia. Cabergoline has been found to be more effective than bromocriptine in reducing persistent hyperprolactinemia, amenorrhea/oligomenorrhea, and galactorrhea. Both drugs have shown efficacy in treating hyperprolactinemia and are commonly used in clinical practice in Pakistan.

How Dostinex (cabergoline) Tablets are Helpful in treating Hyperprolactinemia?

Dostinex (cabergoline) tablets can be helpful for treating hyperprolactinemia because they target the root cause of the problem in many cases. Here’s how it works:

Dopamine connection:  Remember, prolactin is a hormone made by the pituitary gland, and normally our body tightly controls its production. In hyperprolactinemia, this control goes awry, and prolactin levels rise. Dostinex is a dopamine agonist, which means it mimics the effects of dopamine, a natural brain chemical.

Lowering production: Dopamine normally helps regulate prolactin production. By acting like dopamine, Dostinex can help lower the production of prolactin in the pituitary gland, bringing your levels back to a normal range.

Shrinking tumors:  If your hyperprolactinemia is caused by a small tumor in the pituitary gland (prolactinoma), Dostinex can often shrink the tumor. This helps reduce prolactin production and improve symptoms.

 

What is a Somatropin?

Somatropin, also known as human growth hormone (HGH), is a hormone naturally produced by our pituitary gland. It plays a vital role in many bodily functions, especially growth and development. But sometimes, our body doesn’t make enough somatropin. That’s where medical somatropin comes in.

Think of medical somatropin as a replacement for the natural hormone. Doctors can prescribe it to treat conditions where someone has low somatropin levels or stunted growth. For children, this might be due to conditions like Turner syndrome or idiopathic short stature. For adults, it could be due to growth hormone deficiency.

What are the Benefits of the Somatropin Injection ?

The Benefits of the Somatropin Injection for people with specific medical conditions. Here’s how they can help

Children’s Growth:  If a child has a condition that affects their growth hormone production, like Turner syndrome or Prader-Willi syndrome, somatropin injections can help them grow taller and reach a more normal height for their age.

Adult Growth Hormone Deficiency:  For adults with a deficiency in natural growth hormone, somatropin injections can improve bone density and muscle mass. This can lead to increased strength and better overall function. It might also help with body composition by reducing fat storage, particularly around the belly.

Specific Adult Conditions:  In some cases, somatropin injections can benefit adults with specific conditions. For instance, they can help some adults with HIV-related weight loss regain muscle and improve strength. Additionally, they may be used to treat short bowel syndrome in adults, a condition where the intestines have difficulty absorbing nutrients.

What is the Function of the Somatropin Hormone ?

Somatropin, also known as human growth hormone (HGH), is a naturally occurring hormone produced by our pituitary gland. It acts like a master conductor in your body, influencing many functions, especially during growth and development. Here’s a breakdown of its key roles:

Growth Promoter: Somatropin is essential for children’s growth. It stimulates the growth plates in your bones and tissues, allowing you to grow taller and stronger.

Metabolic Regulator: Somatropin also plays a role in regulating how your body uses energy. It tells your body to break down fat for fuel and helps build muscle mass. This can be helpful for maintaining a healthy weight and composition.

Cell Regeneration: Somatropin even helps with cell regeneration and repair throughout the body. This contributes to overall health and well-being.

What are the Uses of the Somatropin Injection?

The uses of the Somatropin Injection are mainly in the human body when your body isn’t producing enough of this hormone on its own. Here are some of the main uses:

Childhood Growth Disorders:  If a child has a condition that affects their growth hormone production, like Turner syndrome or Prader-Willi syndrome, somatropin injections can help them grow taller and reach a more normal height for their age.

Adult Growth Hormone Deficiency:  For adults with a deficiency in natural growth hormone, somatropin injections can improve bone density and muscle mass. This can lead to increased strength, better overall function, and even more favorable body composition by reducing fat storage.

Specific Adult Conditions:  In some cases, somatropin injections can be beneficial for adults with specific medical conditions. For instance, they can help some adults with HIV-related weight loss regain muscle and improve strength. Additionally, they may be used to treat short bowel syndrome in adults, a condition where the intestines have difficulty absorbing nutrients.

How to Use Somatropin Injection?

Somatropin injections are a prescription medication and should only be used under the guidance of a doctor.  We can’t provide specific instructions on how to use them, as the process can vary depending on the brand and your doctor’s specific instructions.

However, here’s some general information to keep in mind:

Somatropin typically comes in prefilled syringes or cartridges.

You’ll inject it under the skin in your stomach, thigh, buttocks, or upper arm.

The injection schedule will depend on your specific condition and doctor’s orders. It might be daily or several times per week.

Here’s what you absolutely must do:

Never use somatropin injections without a doctor’s prescription and training.

Your doctor will show you the proper injection technique and answer any questions you have before you start treatment at home.

Follow your doctor’s instructions exactly regarding dosage, injection sites, and disposal of used needles and syringes.

What is the Price of the Somatropin Injection in Pakistan?

The price of Somatropin injections in Pakistan varies depending on the specific brand and dosage. Here are some price ranges for Somatropin injections in Pakistan:

Humatrope 15IU Injection: Approximately ₨ 26,000.

Norditropin Injection 4 IU: Around ₨ 14,000.00

Humatrope 24mg Injection: Priced at ₨ 15,000.00

What is the Recommended Dosage of Somatropin Injection?

The recommended dosage of Somatropin injection varies based on the specific condition being treated. Here are the typical dosages for different conditions:

For pediatric patients with Cachexia: The usual dosage is 0.04-0.07 mg/kg subcutaneously once a day.

For pediatric patients with Turner Syndrome: Up to 0.067 mg/kg subcutaneously once a day.

For adults with Human Growth Hormone Deficiency: The initial dose is not more than 0.004 mg/kg subcutaneously once a day.

For the treatment of HIV-associated wasting using Serostim®: The starting dose is 0.1 mg/kg once daily, with a total dose of 6 mg for patients weighing over 55 kg.

What are the Side Effects of the Somatropin Injection?

Somatropin injections can cause side effects, but it’s important to remember that not everyone experiences them, and the severity can vary. Here’s a breakdown of what to watch for:

Common side effects: These are usually mild and temporary. They might include aches and pains in your body, soreness at the injection site, or changes in sweating.

More serious side effects:  While less common, some side effects require immediate medical attention.  These include vision problems, trouble breathing, or signs of an allergic reaction.

Other potential side effects: Somatropin can also lead to changes in vision, bone pain, or skin problems at the injection site.

Is Somatropin Injection Use for Bodybuilding?

No, Somatropin injections aren’t recommended for bodybuilding here why.

Limited Muscle Gain: While some research suggests a possible increase in lean muscle mass with somatropin, the gains might not be significant and can be accompanied by fluid retention, not actual muscle growth.

Questionable Effectiveness:  Many studies haven’t found strong evidence that somatropin alone significantly improves muscle strength or performance in healthy adults. It’s often used in combination with other drugs like steroids, which can be dangerous.

Significant Health Risks: Somatropin is a powerful hormone and misusing it can lead to serious health problems. These include increased risk of diabetes, heart disease, joint pain, and even cancer.

Is Somatropin Use for Weight Gain?

Yes, somatropin injection can be used to help patients with HIV gain weight. It is used to raise lean body mass and weight gain in patients with HIV-associated wasting.

Some key points about using somatropin for weight gain:

It is given as a shot into the fatty part of the skin.

If stored in a refrigerator, let it come to room temperature before using.

Move the injection site with each shot.

Do not shake the solution.

Wash your hands before and after use.

Is Somatropin Use for IVF?

Somatropin injection is not commonly used for in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment. The main uses of somatropin are:

To treat growth hormone deficiency in children and adults

To treat short bowel syndrome in adults

To prevent severe weight loss related to AIDS in adult

However, some studies have investigated using somatropin in women undergoing IVF, with mixed results:

A 2019 review found that some studies showed GH co-treatment during ovarian stimulation for IVF may improve outcomes in poor responders, but more research is needed.

A 1991 study found no significant difference in pregnancy rates with GH co-treatment during IVF.

A 1994 study found GH co-treatment did not improve IVF outcomes.

Is Somatropin use for hypopituitarism?

Yes, somatropin is used to treat hypopituitarism. Hypopituitarism is a condition where the pituitary gland does not produce enough hormones, including growth hormone.

In the context of hypopituitarism, somatropin is used to replace growth hormone in children and adults with growth hormone deficiency. It stimulates the growth of linear bone, skeletal muscle, and organs.

Is Somatropin Use for the Weight Loss?

No, somatropin is not used for weight loss.

Limited Impact on Fat Loss: Studies haven’t shown significant evidence that somatropin alone leads to substantial fat loss in healthy adults. While it might cause some decrease in fat mass, it’s often accompanied by muscle loss, which isn’t desirable for weight loss.

A review published in the Journal of Obesity found that HGH treatment in obese adults resulted in a small decrease in fat mass, but it was often accompanied by muscle loss.

Is Somatropin Use for Children?

Yes, somatropin is used to treat growth hormone deficiency in children.

Treating Growth Disorders: Somatropin can be a helpful treatment for children with conditions that affect their growth hormone production. Examples include Turner syndrome, Prader-Willi syndrome, and some chronic kidney diseases. In these cases, somatropin injections can help children grow taller and reach a more normal height for their age.

Not for General Growth Enhancement: It’s important to understand that somatropin is not a magic bullet for making children taller. It’s only prescribed for children with diagnosed growth hormone deficiencies or specific medical conditions that impact growth.

A study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that somatropin treatment in children with growth hormone deficiency significantly improved their final adult height.

Is Somatropin Injection Safe?

Yes, somatropin injection is generally safe when used as prescribed by a healthcare professional.

Safe for Specific Conditions:  When used under a doctor’s supervision for approved medical conditions, somatropin can be a safe and effective treatment. Examples include treating growth hormone deficiency in children or adults with specific medical conditions.

Not for Everyone: Somatropin is not appropriate for everyone.  It can be risky for people with certain medical conditions like cancer or uncontrolled diabetes.

Where to Buy Somatropin Injection in Pakistan?

You can buy Somatropin injection from Online Pharmacy in Pakistan. Online Pharmacy covers varies a number of imported injections including Humatrope growth hormone injection.

When to Take Somatropin Injection?

The timing of your somatropin injections is a very important detail, but it’s not something you should decide on your own. Here’s why:

Tailored for You: The ideal injection schedule depends on your specific situation. Your doctor will consider your medical condition and how they want to treat it when determining the timing.

Frequency Matters: Somatropin injections might be needed daily or on specific days of the week, and the timing will be spaced out accordingly.

Where to Inject Somatropin Injection ?

When administering somatropin injection, it is important to rotate the injection site to avoid problems under the skin. The injection should be given subcutaneously (under the skin) in the following areas:

Stomach area (abdomen)

Upper arms

Upper legs (thighs)

Buttocks

How Long Does Somatropin Last?

There are two ways to think about how long somatropin lasts in your body: how long it’s active and how long it takes for your body to get rid of it completely. Here’s the breakdown:

Active Time:  The effects of a somatropin injection usually last for  9 to 17 hours. This means the medication is actively affecting your growth hormone levels in your bloodstream for this period.

Elimination from Body:  It takes your body longer to completely eliminate somatropin. The biological half-life, which is the time it takes for your body to get rid of half of the medication, is estimated to be around 20 to 30 minutes.  This means after 20-30 minutes, half the medication is gone. It takes several more cycles (around 4-5 half-lives) for your body to get rid of most of the remaining somatropin.