Penis Function and Medications That Increase Prolactin

Penis health and penis function are often linked, with a healthy penis usually more likely to have fewer issues with penis function. However, there can be factors which impede penis function which come about even when a man is taking every step possible to ensure the health of his favorite organ. For example, sometimes medications taken for health issues unrelated to the penis may still have some impact on the manhood. This can be the case with medications which, directly or indirectly, increase the amount of prolactin in the body.

What is prolactin?

Sometimes called luteotropoin, prolactin is a naturally occurring hormone. It occurs in both men and women, but it generally appears in much lower doses in men than in women. One of its primary purposes is to enable women to produce milk for babies. It also can serve to help balance levels of testosterone and estrogen in both sexes.

In men, a certain level of prolactin is therefore a good thing. But if prolactin levels are raised too high, a situation known as hyperprolactinemia results. And that’s not so good. If a man has too much prolactin, it is likely to cause the body to stop producing as much testosterone. Diminished testosterone levels are often associated with a diminished sex drive. Sometimes they can also negatively impact erectile function.

However, when too much prolactin is the factor behind this testosterone decrease, the effects may be more nuanced. Many men in this situation complain that they still have an interest in sex, but that when they engage in the activity, their penis is not as hard as it needs to be. This often leads to sexual situations without ejaculation, which can be frustrating, or to needing extra stimulation in order to reach an orgasm.

Hyperprolactinemia also can result in gynecomastia, in which male breast growth is increased substantially.

Medications

Excess prolactin can come about rom several causes. It often is a side effect of medications being used to treat other conditions.

Risperidone, which is used for treating autism or for helping to control disruptive behavior, was found in one study to raise prolactin levels in 49% of patients taking it. Metoclopromide, which is commonly used for gastrointestinal disorders, including gastroesophageal reflux disorder (GERD), also has been associated with raised prolactin levels.

Phenothiazine (aka PTZ) is an organic compound, derivatives of which are used in several medications. They are most prominently used to treat psychotic conditions. (It also used to be popularly used as an insecticide.)

Treatment

If a man believes that he has hyperprolactinemia, he should raise the possibility with his doctor and have his levels checked. If prolactin levels are significantly raised, the physician should the n determine if the increase is likely due to medication. If so, the patient and doctor should discuss the pros and cons of possible alternative medications. There also are some medications which are used to lower prolactin levels; if these medications are safe to use in conjunction with the medication which is raising prolactin levels, this may be a viable route to take.

Excess prolactin may be the cause of penis function issues, but it’s possible that a healthy penis may be somewhat less affected. Therefore, daily use of a first rate penis health crème (health professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil, which has been clinically proven safe and mild for skin) makes sense. A man should take his time and select only the best such crème. For example, since prolactin may cause some diminishment of penis sensation, use of a crème with ;l-carnitine may be beneficial. L-carnitine is an amino acid with neuroprotective qualities which can help maintain proper penis sensitivity. The best crème will also include a range of important vitamins, including A, B5, C, D and E, to help boost penis health.