EFFECT OF CLOMIPHENE ON RELEASE OF PROLACTIN INDUCED BY MECHANICAL BREAST EMPTYING IN WOMEN POST PARTUM

Abstract

Mechanical breast emptying induced, under basal conditions, a marked rise in prolactin level; average peak value was observed at 30 min. Administration of clomiphene completely abolished the increase in prolactin level in response to mechanical breast emptying. Differences between values observed under basal conditions and after treatment with clomiphene were highly significant (P < 0.001). This drug inhibited puerperal lactation in all subjects, and no rebound phenomena were observed. Administration of a placebo had no effect on prolactin level, moreover, it was ineffective in inhibiting lactation, which had to be suppressed with a 5-day course of clomiphene.