The Importance of Prolactin Levels in Patients Treated with Cabergoline for the Prevention of OHSS: Is Cabergoline Really Effective in Patients with High Risk of OHSS?

Abstract

Background: OHSS is a dangerous and potentially life-threatening condition for which many researchers look for new ways to treat. Aim: To determine the effectiveness of prophylactic cabergoline administration on prolactine levels in patients with high risk for ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS). Material and Methods: 163 in vitro fertilisation (IVF) patients with high risk for OHSS were enrolled in the study. The criteria for inclusion were more than 15 oocytes retrieved at oocyte pick up. A standard antagonist protocol was used for ovulation induction. Cabergoline treatments (0.5 mg/day) were started on the day of oocyte retrieval and continued for eight days. Prolactine levels were measured at the day of oocyte retrieval and the 9th day after the oocyte retrieval. Results: Of the 163 patients, 26 (15.9%) had OHSS. Prolactine levels on the day of oocyte retrieval were 44.22 ± 24.78 ng/mL and 37.6 ± 22.5 ng/mL in patients with OHSS and without OHSS, respectively (P > 0.05). In contrary prolactine levels were significantly higher in patients with OHSS patients (3.9 ± 5.07 ng/mL) than in patients without OHSS (2.1 ± 2.92 ng/mL) at the 9th day after oocyte retrieval (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Prolactine levels were higher in patients with OHSS than without OHSS who were treated with cabergoline for the prevention of OHSS.

Development and management of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome in spontaneous singleton pregnancy

“…In addition, hCG and gonadotropins increase the amount of VEGF. 7 Vasoactive substances secreted by the ovaries increase mesothelial hyperpermeability and cause fluid leakage from the intravascular space to the third space. hCG, estradiol, prolactin, histamine, and prostaglandins are mediators that aggravate OHSS.…”

Mini review: The FDA‐approved prescription drugs that induce ovulation in women with ovulatory problems

“…Oral et al determined the effect of cabergoline in IVF patients with high risk for OHSS. They concluded that prolactin levels in patients who were treated with cabergoline for the prevention of OHSS were low (Oral, Akpak, Karaca, & Savan, 2015). However, Elsersy et al in a randomized clinical trial study suggested that combined cabergoline and metformin could modulate cycle regularity and prolactin level in patients with PCOS and hyperprolactinemia (Elsersy, 2017).…”