Posted by Cam W. on February 13, 2001, at 11:17:38
In reply to Cam--Seroquel effect on hormones?, posted by LouF on February 13, 2001, at 9:25:04
Lou - Prolactin increases seen in most of the older neuroleptics and occasionally in higher dose atypical antipsychotics seems to be due to the level of binding to dopamine-2 (D2) receptors. Seroquel binds to D2 receptors at a very low level (similar to Clozaril, which also does not increase prolactin levels). Therefore, the risk of menstrual problems via prolactin elevation by Seroquel is low (but not totally impossible).
Are you taking any other medication other than Seroquel? Other medications, which could have been causing borderline prolactin elevations could have further elevations when Seroquel is added. Still, I think that this is unlikely.
It could be a combination of the drug and your body (ie onset of menopause). This could be possible, especially if early menopause runs in your family.
So, to answer your question is one, the other, or both. The Seroquel, even though it binds very loosely to D2 receptors, may have been just enough to block those D2 receptors and elevating prolactin levels from a borderline state to an active state of hormonal change.
The only way to tell would be to go off your Seroquel (**which I would "definitely" advise against if it is working for your symptoms**) to see if your menstruation returns. This is something that you'd have to discuss with both docs.
This is one of those times that YOU have to make an informed choice. If the Seroquel is working, I'd be inclined to keep taking it (if it ain't broke, don't fix it), but that is my personal opinion. This is your body. Again, the chance of the menstrual changes being caused by Seroquel is very low (but not impossible). Talk to the docs and get their opinions.
Also, ask the docs to speak to each other on this. It is always nice when the whole treatment team is on the same page.
I hope this is of some help - Cam
poster:Cam W.
thread:53866
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20010212/msgs/53875.html