Can Stopping My Stomach Medication Help Regulate My Menstrual Cycle? - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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Doctor: Hello! I haven't had my period for three months, so I went to the hospital and my prolactin level was 106.
The doctor prescribed Parlodel, two tablets a day.
However, after doing some research, I found that my gastrointestinal medication could also cause an increase in prolactin levels.
I confirmed with the hospital that the Nidolium I have been taking for nearly a year has this side effect, and my menstrual cycle has almost doubled to two months.
I would like to ask, if I stop taking the gastrointestinal medication, can I also stop taking Parlodel? It seems that this medication has significant side effects as well.
Thank you for your response.

Zhang, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/12/04

Dr. Lü Lizheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology


It is recommended to stop the gastric medication and observe for two weeks before conducting a blood test.
Parlodel can be taken as two tablets a day, but you may take just one tablet before bedtime, as side effects are minimal.
Sincerely, Lu Lizheng.

Reply Date: 2005/12/04

More Info


Stopping stomach medication can potentially help regulate your menstrual cycle, especially if the medication you are taking has side effects that influence hormonal levels. In your case, it seems that you have been experiencing irregular menstrual cycles and elevated prolactin levels, which can be linked to the use of certain medications, including Nidolium.

Nidolium, which is often used to treat gastrointestinal issues, can indeed have side effects that affect hormone levels, including increasing prolactin. Prolactin is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland, and elevated levels can lead to menstrual irregularities, such as amenorrhea (absence of menstruation) or oligomenorrhea (infrequent menstruation). If your prolactin levels are significantly elevated, it can disrupt the normal hormonal balance necessary for regular menstrual cycles.

Parlodel (bromocriptine) is a medication used to lower elevated prolactin levels. If your elevated prolactin is indeed a result of the Nidolium you have been taking, discontinuing this medication may help normalize your prolactin levels, potentially allowing your menstrual cycle to return to normal without the need for Parlodel. However, it is essential to approach this decision cautiously and under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

Before making any changes to your medication regimen, it is crucial to consult with your doctor. They can provide personalized advice based on your medical history, the specific medications you are taking, and your overall health status. Your doctor may recommend monitoring your prolactin levels after stopping Nidolium to see if they decrease and whether your menstrual cycle begins to normalize.

In addition to medication adjustments, other factors can influence menstrual cycles, including stress, diet, exercise, and underlying health conditions. It may be beneficial to evaluate these aspects of your lifestyle as well. For instance, high levels of stress can lead to hormonal imbalances that affect menstruation. Ensuring a balanced diet, regular exercise, and effective stress management techniques can also contribute positively to your menstrual health.

If you decide to stop taking Nidolium, it is essential to do so gradually and under medical supervision, especially if you have been on it for an extended period. Abruptly stopping certain medications can lead to withdrawal symptoms or a rebound effect, where symptoms may worsen. Your healthcare provider can guide you on the best way to taper off the medication safely.

In summary, stopping your stomach medication may help regulate your menstrual cycle if it is indeed contributing to elevated prolactin levels. However, this decision should be made in consultation with your healthcare provider, who can monitor your progress and make necessary adjustments to your treatment plan. Regular follow-ups and open communication with your doctor will be vital in managing your health effectively.

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