Bromocriptine

Bromocriptine an ergoline derivative, is a dopamine agonist that is used in the treatment of pituitary tumors and Parkinson’s disease and conditions associated with excessive prolactin production from the pituitary gland. conditions include some types of female infertility and occasionally male infertility and impotence. It is also effective in treating some benign breast conditions and other symptoms of menstrual disorders. It can also be used to suppress lactation in women who do not wish to breast-feed. It is also very effective in relieving the symptoms of parkinsonism and is given when other drugs have failed or are unsuitable. This drug also reduces the release of growth hormone because of this it is used to treat *acromegaly (excess growth hormone disorder). In rare cases bromocriptine has been known to cause ulceration of the stomach. Serious side effects are rare when taken in low doses. The adverse effects of Vomiting and nausea can be reduced by taking the dose with meals.

Since bromocriptine acts as a dopamine agonist, it has potential use in treating cocaine addiction, as the addictive effects of cocaine are caused by its blocking dopamine reuptake. Although bromocriptine has negligible subjective effects when administered alone, studies show it has the potential to significantly ease the cocaine withdrawal syndrome. More infomation can be found at wikipedia.

It has also been used in some countries to prevent lactation following childbirth if the mother does not wish to breastfeed; one of dopamine’s effects on the pituitary is as an antagonist of prolactin production by lactotrophs. However, the FDA removed this indication in 1995, because of concerns with respect to an increased risk of heart attack, seizure and stroke.

*Acromegaly most commonly affects adults in middle age, and can result in severe disfigurement, serious complicating conditions, and premature death if unchecked.

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Detailed Information

Quick Guide

• Parkinsonism and pituitary agent with overdose danger – LOW
• Dependency is said to be – LOW
• Prescription only drug – YES
• Available as generic – YES
• Alcohol Avoidance – YES
• Alcohol increases the likelihood of Confusion and reduces tolerance to bromocriptine

Side Effects

You may if on this medication suffer one or more of these side effects, in the initial stages. However, you may find you do not suffer any at all, as it does not follow that being on this medication will cause unwanted adverse effects.

Common: Confusion, Dizziness, Nausea, Vomiting, Circulation Problems
Rare: Constipation, Drowsiness, Headaches, Abnormal Movements

The side effects listed here are the most common and rare problems reported by patients using this medication It does not include all of the side effects reported by the drug’s manufacturer. If common side effects persist you need to inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you suffer any of the rare or some other side effects not listed here. For total peace of mind, seek information from your doctor or chemist.

Prolonged Use

There are no special problems with this drug. However, periodic checks may be made to monitor hormone levels. Gynecological test may be carried out once or twice yearly. Monitoring would also be done to check for rare adverse effects such as peptic ulcer in *acromegaly

Driving, Hazardous Work & Alcohol

Avoid driving/hazardous work until you know how bromocriptine affects you. This drug may be the cause of dizziness and drowsiness, making the above activities rather hazardous. Alcohol increases the likelihood of Confusion and reduces tolerance to bromosriptine.

Pregnancy and Breast-Feeding

The safety in pregnancy has not been established you should discuss this issue with your doctor. The drug suppresses milk production and prevents it completely if given within 12 hours of delivery. If you are looking to breast feed you should discuss both these issue with your doctor.

Tell Your Doctor

You should tell your doctor if you have a current health problem. For example: heart disease, kidney problems, if you are pregnant or you intend to become pregnant, or if you think you may be at risk from drug treatment for any other reason. Some types of medication can cause serious adverse effects when taken side by side so it is important to tell your doctor of any other medication you are already taking. This should also include any over-the-counter medication. For example: Painkillers, cold remedies, herbal and complimentary / alternative medication.

See full list of things you should tell your doctor about.»

Over 60’s & Children

A reduced dosage may be needed for the over sixties. this medication is not usually prescribed for children under 15 years.

Overdose

If you have taken an extra unintentional dose it would be unlikely to cause any problems. However, if you notice any unusual symptom or a large overdose has been taken then you should notify your doctor.

Other Medication Reactions

Antipsychotic drugs oppose the action of bromocriptine and increase the risk of parkinsonism. The likes of phenylpropanolamine, ephedrine and pseudoephedrine are found in some over-the-counter medicines for coughs and colds, the use of these kind of medicines with bromocriptine may lead to severe side effects. medication that may lead to increased levels of bromocriptine and the risk of adverse effects if taken are erythromycin and other macrolide antibiotics. Domperidone and metoclopramide may reduce some of the effects of bromocriptine.

Missed A Dose

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue the regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Reducing or Stopping Medication

It is important that you do not stop taking the drug without consulting your doctor. It is possible that the symptoms will recur.

Effect Of Medication

The effects of this drug is variable depending on the condition. It has a lasting effect of about 8 hours.

Storage and Safety

Keep medicine in its original container, in a cool dry place, away from the reach of children. Never take medication that has past the expiry date shown on the box or container. Return all un-used or old medicines to your pharmacist. Do not discard old or unwanted medication into your trash, sink or toilet.

If this medication has been prescribed for you never allow anyone else to use it, even if you know or they feel their symptom are similar to your own.

Do not leave your doctors surgery until you have a clear understanding of what the drug your doctor has prescribed for you does, and why you have been prescribed it. It is common for people who do not understand the reason behind there treatment to take their medication correctly.