Psychoneuroendocrinology
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It has been suggested that elevated luteal phase prolactin (PRL) levels may have an important role in causing some of the symptoms of the premenstrual tension syndrome (PMTS). Thirty-seven women suffering from severe premenstrual dysphoria were selected for this study. Single morning and afternoon serum PRL evaluations were performed during the follicular (day 9) and late luteal (day 26) phases of the menstrual cycle. ⋯ A marked rebound hyperprolactinemia was observed in a subgroup of women nine days after cessation of bromocriptine. This was associated with no detectable effect on mood, behavior, or menstrual regularity. Thus, our data fail to show any specific relationship between PRL and PMTS.