In women, the symptoms of infertility, irregular menstruation, loss of sexual interest, and milk flow not related to childbirth or nursing can be improved with treatment. Men should be treated when decreased sexual drive, infertility, or impotence occur.

Bromocriptine (a dopamine-increasing medication) is a medication used to return prolactin levels to normal in both men and women. Higher levels of dopamine can reduce prolactin levels. Larger tumors or those resistant to bromocriptine may respond to surgical removal, stereotactic radiosurgery (use of radiation aimed precisely at the tumor) or a combination of treatments.

The outlook depends heavily on the success of medical and surgical therapies. Tests to scan for recurrence following treatment are important.

Tumor regrowth is the main complication. If untreated, tumor growth may result in permanent visual loss, including blindness, because large tumors in this area often press on the nerves involved in vision.

See your health care provider if symptoms suggestive of prolactinoma develop.

If you have had a prolactinoma in the past, call your health care provider if you experience recurrence of the symptoms.