Serum Prolactin Level, Craving, and Early Discharge from Treatment in Cocaine-Dependent Patients

Abstract

On admission to inpatient treatment, 13 of 33 (39%) cocaine-dependent patients were found to be hyperprolactinemic. Cocaine craving was significantly correlated with cocaine use during the 30 days prior to admission. Serum prolactin level, however, was not correlated with either cocaine use or craving. This lack of intercorrelation argues against the notion that dopamine depletion is an adequate explanation for both craving and hyperprolactinemia following chronic cocaine use. Hyperprolactinemia was associated with a greater likelihood of early discharge from treatment. Gender differences, recent use of other drugs (including alcohol), and a diagnosis of antisocial personality disorder were not related to early discharge. The clinical relevance of these findings is discussed. Further investigation is needed to determine the etiology of the hyperprolactinemia that has been observed in some cocaine-dependent patient samples.