Prolactin with 20-minute triple bolus stimulation test (serum/plasma mass concentration)
This test measures your prolactin hormone levels before and after a controlled dose of a medication that stimulates hormone release. It helps evaluate how your pituitary gland responds to stimulation.
["Assesses pituitary function and potential hormone imbalances after a drug challenge."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 40331-1
- Short code
- Prolactin 20M p Triple Bolus SerPl-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Prolactin 20M 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 recommend this test if you have symptoms like unexplained galactorrhea (milk production without pregnancy), irregular periods, or signs of a pituitary tumor. It can also help diagnose conditions like hyperprolactinemia or evaluate pituitary function after certain treatments.
What to Expect Before the Test
You’ll receive a small dose of a medication (often cabergoline or bromocriptine) to stimulate prolactin release. Blood samples will be taken at baseline and multiple intervals (including 20 minutes post-dose) to measure hormone levels.
During the Test
No special preparation is needed beyond fasting if blood is drawn early in the morning. You may experience mild side effects like nausea or dizziness from the medication; inform your doctor if these occur.
After the Test
Results are analyzed to see how prolactin levels change over time. Abnormal spikes or patterns may indicate pituitary dysfunction or other hormonal issues requiring further evaluation.
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.
Elevated prolactin levels post-stimulation may suggest a pituitary tumor, medication side effects, or other conditions affecting hormone regulation. Low or blunted responses could indicate pituitary damage or dysfunction, guiding treatment decisions like medication adjustments or surgery.
Short name
Prolactin Stimulation Test
Frequently asked questions
What does a normal response look like?
How long does it take to get results?
Can I drink alcohol before this 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