Analysis of whether long-term use of cabergoline increases the risk of ovarian cancer

Cabergoline is a long-acting dopamine D2 receptor agonist mainly used to treat hyperprolactinemia and prolactinoma. It inhibits pituitary prolactin secretion and reduces serum prolactin levels, thereby improving symptoms such as menstrual disorders, galactorrhea and abnormal fertility. Because prolactin has a certain effect on breast and ovarian cell proliferation in the body, drugs that regulate prolactin levels for a long time have caused clinical concern as to whether long-term use of cabergoline will increase the risk of ovarian cancer or other reproductive system tumors.

Current research and clinical data do not show a significant association between cabergoline and ovarian cancer risk. Multiple long-term follow-up studies have shown that the incidence of malignant tumors of the ovary and other reproductive organs in patients with hyperprolactinemia treated with cabergoline for months to years is no higher than that in the general population. Even with long-term use, most patients mainly experience mild side effects, such as hypotension, dizziness, nausea, or mild heart valve thickening, while serious malignant events are extremely rare. Therefore, from the available evidence, there is no clear cause-and-effect relationship between long-term cabergoline use and an increased risk of ovarian cancer.

Despite this, some literature suggests that because long-term use of dopamine agonists may have certain effects on heart valves or the endocrine system, patients still need to be followed up regularly under the guidance of a doctor. Especially for women with a family history of ovarian tumors or other high-risk factors, it is recommended to undergo regular pelvic ultrasound or necessary imaging examinations to detect abnormal changes early. This monitoring is more for the prevention of general reproductive system diseases than for the carcinogenicity of cabergoline itself.
Overall, long-term cabergoline treatment for hyperprolactinemia or prolactinoma has not been shown to be significantly associated with an increased risk of ovarian cancer in clinical studies. Through standardized dosage use, regular serum prolactin and imaging monitoring, patients can effectively control the symptoms of hyperprolactinemia and minimize potential health risks. Doctors will comprehensively evaluate the safety of continued medication based on individual risks, treatment duration, and past medical history to ensure the effectiveness and safety of long-term treatment.
Reference: https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/homepage