Prolactin level measured in plasma following a triple bolus administration (pre-test)
This test measures your prolactin hormone levels in plasma before receiving a series of injections designed to stimulate hormone release. Prolactin is a hormone involved in milk production and may also affect mood, sleep, and reproductive functions.
["This test helps assess how your body responds to hormone-stimulating injections."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 40329-5
- Short code
- Prolactin pre Triple Bolus SerPl-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Prolactin pre Triple Bolus 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 Is This Test Done?
Your healthcare provider may order this test to evaluate how prolactin levels change in response to specific medications or procedures. It could be used in research or clinical trials involving hormone stimulation protocols.
What Does the Test Measure?
The test measures the concentration of prolactin, a protein hormone produced primarily by the pituitary gland. Prolactin plays roles in lactation, immune function, and may influence other bodily processes like metabolism and mood.
What to Expect Before the Test
You will receive a series of injections (boluses) to stimulate prolactin release. Blood will be drawn just before these injections begin to measure baseline levels. This is typically done in a clinical setting with medical supervision.
What Happens During the Test?
After the baseline blood draw, you will receive injections as part of a controlled study or treatment protocol. Blood samples may be taken at intervals to monitor prolactin levels throughout the process.
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.
Elevated prolactin levels can indicate conditions like pituitary tumors, certain medications, or hormonal imbalances. This test helps monitor how prolactin responds to interventions, which may inform treatment decisions for conditions affecting hormone function.
Short name
Prolactin (Pre-Triple Bolus)
Frequently asked questions
What does a prolactin test measure before the injections?
Why is this test done before the injections?
Can this test be done at home?
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