Bromocriptine
Indications
Bromocriptine is used to treat conditions caused by too much prolactin (a hormone that makes breast milk), such as missed periods, infertility, milk discharge from the breast and some pituitary tumours called prolactinomas. It is also used for acromegaly (excess growth hormone) and, less often today, for Parkinson's disease. In some countries a special low dose form is used for type 2 diabetes. It is no longer recommended for routinely stopping breast milk after childbirth.
How It Works
Bromocriptine acts like dopamine, a natural brain chemical. In the pituitary gland, dopamine switches off prolactin release, so prolactin levels fall and normal periods and fertility can return. In the brain, it helps replace missing dopamine in Parkinson's disease, which improves movement.
Dosage and Administration
Take exactly as prescribed. The dose is usually started very low, often at bedtime, and increased slowly to reduce nausea and dizziness. Always take it with food. Do not stop suddenly without speaking to your doctor. Regular follow up and blood tests are needed.
Interactions
- Antipsychotics and Metoclopramide block dopamine and reduce its effect.
- Erythromycin, Clarithromycin and some HIV and antifungal medicines can raise its levels.
- Other ergot medicines and triptans may increase the risk of narrowing of blood vessels.
- Alcohol may increase side effects.
- Blood pressure medicines may add to low blood pressure.
Contraindications
- Allergy to Bromocriptine or other ergot alkaloids.
- Uncontrolled high blood pressure, pre eclampsia, or high blood pressure after childbirth.
- Serious heart valve disease, or history of fibrosis (scarring) of the lungs or heart.
- Severe mental illness, unless specialist advice is given.
Side Effects
Common effects include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, headache, tiredness, constipation, blocked nose and low blood pressure on standing. Some people develop sleepiness, confusion or unusual urges such as gambling or overeating.
Get urgent medical help if you have chest pain, a severe headache, sudden vision problems, fainting, fits, black or bloody stools, persistent cough or breathlessness, or sudden falling asleep during daily activities.
Pregnancy and Lactation
When it is used to restore fertility, it is usually stopped once pregnancy is confirmed, unless the specialist advises otherwise. It stops milk production, so it should not be used by women who wish to breastfeed.
Precautions and Warnings
- Rise slowly from sitting or lying, especially in the first days.
- Do not drive if you feel sleepy or have sudden sleep episodes.
- Women not wishing to become pregnant should use non hormonal contraception, as fertility may return quickly.
- Long term use needs checks of heart and lungs.
Overdose
Overdose may cause severe nausea, vomiting, low blood pressure, dizziness, hallucinations and confusion. Seek emergency medical help.
Therapeutic Class
Dopamine agonist (ergot derivative); prolactin inhibitor.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.
All brands of Bromocriptine