Rozerem and Prolactin Levels

In clinical studies, increased prolactin levels were seen in up to 32 percent of patients taking the sleep medicine. This side effect can cause a number of symptoms, including infertility, irregular periods, and milk-like breast discharge. If you think you may be having a problem with Rozerem and prolactin levels, let your healthcare provider know.

 

Rozerem and Prolactin Levels: An Overview

Rozerem® (ramelteon) is a prescription sleep medication used for insomnia treatment. As with all medicines, Rozerem has possible side effects. One possible side effect of Rozerem is high prolactin levels (known medically as hyperprolactinemia).
 

Rozerem and Prolactin Levels -- What's the Risk?

Prolactin is a female hormone that is normally produced by the body. The hormone performs several important functions during pregnancy and with breastfeeding. However, when prolactin levels stay high for too long, problems can occur. In women, high prolactin levels can cause a number of symptoms, including:
 
  • Irregular periods, or a very long time between periods
  • Milk-like breast discharge
  • Infertility.
     
In studies with Rozerem, up to 32 percent of people had increased levels of prolactin in the blood. Keep in mind though that just because prolactin levels are high does not mean that the person will have symptoms.
 
As with other medicines that can cause high prolactin levels (such as birth control pills), in most cases when Rozerem is stopped, the high prolactin levels decrease. Infrequently, hyperprolactinemia treatment may be required.
 
Your prolactin level can be easily checked using a blood test. Ask your healthcare provider about testing your prolactin level if you think you may be having a problem with increased prolactin levels. If blood levels show that your prolactin levels are high, he or she may suggest a different insomnia medication for you.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;