From the FDA Drug Label
Endocrine Rare were galactorrhea and thyroid abnormality
- Galactorrhea is listed as a rare adverse event in the Endocrine section of the drug label.
- The FDA drug label for Buspar (buspirarmine) indicates that galactorrhea can occur, although it is considered a rare event 1.
From the Research
Buspar (buspirone) is unlikely to cause galactorrhea in patients, as there is no direct evidence linking the two in the provided studies 2, 3, 4, 5, 6. However, it is essential to consider that galactorrhea is commonly caused by hyperprolactinemia, which can be induced by various medications or associated with pituitary adenomas or other sellar or suprasellar lesions 2. If galactorrhea develops while taking buspirone, the next steps include contacting a healthcare provider promptly for evaluation, as this may indicate elevated prolactin levels. The provider will likely check prolactin levels through blood tests and may order additional imaging such as an MRI of the pituitary gland to rule out other causes 3. Management options include discontinuing the offending medication and switching to an alternative, dose reduction if symptoms are mild, or adding a dopamine agonist like cabergoline or bromocriptine to counteract the prolactin elevation 4. It is crucial to note that some antidepressants, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), have been associated with galactorrhea due to their potential to increase prolactin levels by suppressing dopamine neurotransmission 5, 6. While buspirone is not an SSRI, patients should be informed about the potential for galactorrhea as a rare side effect and advised to report any unusual breast discharge, swelling, or tenderness immediately rather than dismissing these symptoms. Key points to consider in the management of galactorrhea include:
- Evaluating prolactin levels and thyroid function
- Assessing for pituitary adenomas or other sellar or suprasellar lesions
- Discontinuing medications that may be contributing to hyperprolactinemia
- Considering dopamine agonist therapy to manage hyperprolactinemia
- Monitoring for resolution of symptoms and normalization of prolactin levels after treatment adjustments.