Prolactin with 15-minute triple bolus measurement (serum/plasma)
This test measures your prolactin hormone levels after receiving three rapid doses of a medication to help assess how your body responds to sudden hormone spikes.
["A triple bolus test helps doctors check how prolactin behaves under stress."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 40330-3
- Short code
- Prolactin 15M p Triple Bolus SerPl-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Prolactin 15M p Triple Bolus SerPl-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0.8
- Ref high
- 1.2
- Critical range
- — – 5 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 85610
- SNOMED
- 396252006
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Your doctor may order this test if they suspect conditions like pituitary tumors, hyperprolactinemia (high prolactin), or other hormonal imbalances. The triple bolus method helps evaluate how prolactin levels change in response to rapid hormone stimulation, which can indicate underlying issues affecting hormone regulation.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to fast for a few hours before the test. Bring any medications you’re currently taking, as they could affect results. Avoid smoking or consuming caffeine for 24 hours before the test.
How the Test Is Performed
A blood sample will be drawn from a vein in your arm. The test involves receiving three rapid doses of a synthetic hormone (usually TRH or other stimulant) over a short period, followed by blood samples taken at 15-minute intervals to measure prolactin levels.
What the Results Mean
Results help determine if your prolactin levels spike abnormally after hormone stimulation. Elevated or inconsistent responses may signal conditions like pituitary adenomas, thyroid disorders, or other hormonal imbalances. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your symptoms and medical history.
Reference range
INR: 0.8-1.2 (warfarin: 2.0-3.0)N/A
Inform your healthcare provider if you are taking blood thinners. No special preparation required.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
Prolactin Triple Bolus Test
Frequently asked questions
What causes prolactin levels to rise quickly after a bolus dose?
How often should I get this test?
Can I take my usual medications before the test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy