Galactorrhea with metoclopramide use in the neonatal unit

J Perinatol. 2009 May;29(5):391-2. doi: 10.1038/jp.2008.246.

Abstract

We report a 3(1/2)-month-old infant with trisomy 21 presenting with galactorrhea in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). Endocrine work-up showed a high prolactin level (64.4 ng ml(-1)--normal: 0.5 to 30 ng ml(-1)). Cessation of therapy with metoclopramide (0.2 mg kg(-1) per dose q 6 h) resulted in the resolution of galactorrhea with a decrease in serum prolactin level (20.1 ng ml(-1)). We present this case to highlight this uncommon side effect of a commonly used medication in the NICU.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Abnormalities, Multiple / diagnosis
  • Abnormalities, Multiple / therapy
  • Down Syndrome / diagnosis
  • Ductus Arteriosus, Patent / diagnosis
  • Ductus Arteriosus, Patent / surgery
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Galactorrhea / chemically induced*
  • Galactorrhea / physiopathology
  • Gastroesophageal Reflux / diagnosis
  • Gastroesophageal Reflux / drug therapy*
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Intensive Care Units, Neonatal
  • Male
  • Metoclopramide / adverse effects*
  • Metoclopramide / therapeutic use
  • Prolactin / blood*
  • Risk Assessment

Substances

  • Prolactin
  • Metoclopramide