Risperidone-Induced hyperprolactinemia in a Pre-menopausal Woman: A case report

Abstract

A common side effect of antipsychotic medications used to treat psychotic patients is hyperprolactinemia. Its occurrence leads to dysfunction of the reproductive, endocrine and metabolic systems. This side effect which may be symptomatic or asymptomatic, is commonly under reported and under treated and may result in poor compliance. We present the case of a 35year old patient treated for psychotic depression with atypical antipsychotics (Risperidone) and antidepressant (Amitrypiline), who presented with galactorrhea and amenorrhea which caused her to stop her medications and consequently, a resurgence of the primary illness. Hormonal assay showed elevated Prolactin level which reduced significantly with institution of dopamine receptor agonist Bromocriptine and a switch in medication to Aripripazole. These are examples of treatment strategies suggested in literatures reviewed. We recommended that clinicians pay more attention to hyperproclactenimia as an important side effect seen in patients taking antipsychotics which may reduce compliance.