In plain words
A dopamine agonist is a class of medication. It acts on the brain to lower , the hormone that makes milk. In the past, some providers used these medications to stop milk production, for example after a loss or when a mother chose to stop breastfeeding. Their use for this purpose has become less common, because of heart and blood pressure concerns. Some mothers are offered other ways to ease milk production. and discomfort can be eased without medication. A provider who knows her history can explain the options for a mother who wants to stop milk production.
The deeper version
Prolactin secretion is under tonic dopaminergic inhibition from the hypothalamus, which is the target of dopamine agonists such as bromocriptine and cabergoline. Historically used for , these agents were withdrawn from that labeled indication in several countries after reports of serious cardiovascular events, and the balance of benefit and harm for this use is now a clinical judgment. Current practice guidance generally favors nonpharmacologic lactation cessation and symptom management, and the evidence base for pharmacologic suppression is largely observational. Controversy persists about the cardiovascular risk profile, appropriate patient selection, and whether any agent is preferable for a given history.
Where it comes up
- Engorgement when milk comes inPostpartum: Your Body
- Weaning: gradual, abrupt, and baby-ledFeeding Your Baby
What mothers here say about dopamine agonist
No one has posted under this term yet.
Sources
- Hale TW, Hartmann PE (eds.) — Textbook of Human Lactation. Hale Publishing, 2007
- American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists — Committee Opinion 736: Optimizing Postpartum Care, 2018