Brand name Parlodel
Used in the following combined preparations None
GENERAL INFORMATION
By inhibiting secretion of the hormone prolactin from the pituitary gland, bromocriptine is used in the treatment of conditions associated with excessive prolactin production. Such conditions include some types of female infertility and occasionally male infertility and impotence. It is effective in treating some benign breast conditions and other symptoms of menstrual disorders.
Bromocriptine may also be used to suppress lactation in women who do not wish to breast-feed.
Bromocriptine reduces the release of growth hormone, and therefore is used in the treatment of acromegaly .
Bromocriptine is also effective for relieving the symptoms of parkinsonism. The drug is now widely used to treat people who are in the advanced stages of parkinsonism when other drugs have failed or are unsuitable.
Serious adverse reactions to the drug are uncommon when it is given in low doses.
The most common problems, nausea and vomiting, can be minimized by taking bromocriptine with meals. Bromocriptine may in rare cases cause ulceration of the stomach.
QUICK REFERENCE
Drug group Drug for parkinsonism and pituitary agent
Overdose danger rating Low
Dependence rating Low
Prescription needed Yes
Available as generic Yes
INFORMATION FOR USERS
Your drug prescription is tailored for you. Do not alter dosage without checking with your doctor.
How taken
Tablets, capsules.
Frequency and timing of doses
1-4 x daily with food.
Adult dosage range
The dose given depends on the condition being treated and your response. In most cases treatment starts with a daily dose of 1-1.25mg. This is gradually increased until a satisfactory response is achieved.
Onset of effect
Variable depending on the condition.
Duration of action
About 8 hours.
Diet advice
None.
Storage
Keep in a closed container in a cool, dry place out of the reach of children.
Protect from light.
Missed dose
Take as soon as you remember. If your next dose is due within 2 hours, take a single dose now and skip the next.
Stopping the drug
Do not stop the drug without consulting your doctor; symptoms may recur.
Exceeding the dose
An occasional unintentional extra dose is unlikely to be a cause for concern. If you notice any unusual symptoms, or if a large overdose has been taken, notify your doctor.
SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS
Be sure to tell your doctor if:
You have poor circulation. You have a stomach ulcer.
You have a history of psychiatric disorders,
You are taking other medications.
Pregnancy
Safety in pregnancy not established. Discuss with your doctor.
Breast-feeding
The drug suppresses milk production, and prevents it completely if given within
12 hours of delivery. If you wish to breast- feed consult your doctor.
Infants and children
Not usually prescribed under 15 years.
Over 60
Reduced dose may be necessary.
Driving and hazardous work
Avoid such activities until you have learned how bromocriptine affects you
because the drug may cause dizziness and drowsiness.
Alcohol
Avoid. Alcohol increases the likelihood of confusion while taking this drug.
POSSIBLE ADVERSE EFFECTS
Adverse effects are usually related to the dose being taken. When used for parkinsonism, bromocriptine may cause abnormal movements.
INTERACTIONS
Antipsychotic drugs These drugs oppose the action of bromocriptine and increase the risk of parkinsonism.
Domperidone and metoclopramide
These drugs may reduce some of the effects of bromocriptine.
PROLONGED USE
No special problems.
Monitoring Periodic blood tests may be performed to check hormone levels.
Gynaecological tests may be carried out annually (or every six months in postmenopausal women).
