Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB) Practice Exam

Which condition can chlorpromazine contribute to in patients?

1. Hypothyroidism

2. Galactorrhea

3. Adrenal insufficiency

4. Type 2 diabetes

The correct answer is: Galactorrhea

Chlorpromazine, which is an antipsychotic medication, can lead to galactorrhea due to its effects on the dopaminergic system. This condition is characterized by inappropriate breast milk secretion and can occur as a result of elevated prolactin levels, which is often a side effect of antipsychotic medications. Chlorpromazine acts as a dopamine antagonist, particularly at the D2 receptors. Dopamine normally inhibits prolactin release from the anterior pituitary gland. When chlorpromazine blocks dopamine receptors, it results in increased prolactin levels, which can stimulate the mammary glands to produce milk, leading to galactorrhea. Understanding the hormonal interplay is crucial; increased prolactin can also lead to other symptoms such as menstrual irregularities and sexual dysfunction. The relationship between the medication’s mechanism of action and the resulting hormonal changes emphasizes why galactorrhea is a well-documented side effect of chlorpromazine. Other conditions listed can be influenced by various factors but are not directly linked to the pharmacological action of chlorpromazine in the same way galactorrhea is.