Serum Prolactin Level (Pre-HIV Treatment)
This test measures the amount of prolactin, a hormone produced by your pituitary gland, in your blood serum before starting HIV treatment. Prolactin helps regulate breast milk production and affects other hormones.
["Prolactin levels can influence fertility, mood, and immune function, so monitoring them is important before starting certain medications."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 1620-4
- Short code
- Prolactin pre TRH IV SerPl-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Prolactin pre TRH IV SerPl-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 2
- Ref high
- 18
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 84146
- 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 healthcare provider may order this test if you’re starting HIV treatment with medications that can affect prolactin levels. High or low prolactin can sometimes cause side effects like breast changes, menstrual issues, or mood swings. This test helps ensure your treatment plan is safe and appropriate for your body.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to fast for a few hours before the blood draw. Wear a comfortable shirt for easy access to your arm. The test involves a small needle inserted into a vein, usually in your arm, and a small amount of blood is collected.
What the Results Mean
Results are compared to a general reference range for healthy adults, but individual ranges can vary. High prolactin levels may signal issues like pituitary tumors or certain medications. Low levels might be normal or related to conditions like hyperprolactinemia (though this is less common). Always discuss your results with your doctor.
Possible Side Effects or Risks
Most people experience only mild discomfort or bruising at the injection site. Rarely, blood tests can cause fainting or excessive bleeding. If you have a history of blood clotting issues or are on blood thinners, let your provider know before the test.
Reference range
Adult males: 2-18 ng/mL; Females: 2-29 ng/mLN/A
For females: inform if menstrual cycle status. For certain tests, timing within menstrual cycle may matter.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Prolactin levels are important before starting HIV medications that can alter hormone balance, such as certain antiretrovirals. Elevated prolactin may require dose adjustments or alternative treatments to avoid side effects like galactorrhea (milk production outside breastfeeding), menstrual irregularities, or sexual dysfunction. Your doctor will consider these results alongside your overall health and treatment plan.
Short name
Prolactin Serum
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get my prolactin test results?
Can I eat or drink before this test?
What if my prolactin level is outside the normal range?
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