What is this medication for?
Bromocriptine belongs to a group of medications called ergot alkaloids.
It is used to treat Parkinson's disease and conditions caused by too much
of the hormone prolactin. These conditions include some types of
menstrual problems, increased milk production, female infertility, male development
problems, and small tumors called adenomas. Bromocriptine is also used to treat
acromegaly (overproduction of growth hormone causing unusual enlargement
of the hands, jaw, and feet).
For Parkinson's disease, bromocriptine works by stimulating specific parts
of the brain that are involved in this disease and helps to improve muscle control
and movement by affecting the balance of a chemical in the brain called dopamine.
For conditions associated with too much prolactin, bromocriptine works by blocking
the release of prolactin from the pituitary gland (in the brain).
Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those
listed here. As well, some forms of this medication may not be used for all
of the conditions discussed here. If you have not discussed this with your doctor
or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do
not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms
as you do. It can be harmful for people to take this medication if their
doctor has not prescribed it. Do not stop taking this medication without
consulting your doctor.
What form(s) does this medication come in?
Parlodel® is available as:
Some medications may have other generic brands available. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of switching between brands of the same medication.
How should I use this medication?
The recommended adult dose of bromocriptine ranges from 1.25 mg to 2.5 mg
taken at bedtime with food to 20 mg to 40 mg daily taken in divided
doses with meals, depending on the condition being treated and the needs of
the person. The initial dose for all conditions is 1.25 mg to 2.5 mg
at bedtime with food to establish tolerance levels. The dosage should be increased
slowly.
Store this medication below 77°F, protect it from heat, light,
and moisture, and keep it out of the reach of children.
It is important that this medication be taken exactly as prescribed by your
doctor. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible and continue with your
regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose
and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose
to make up for a missed one.
Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as
body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor
has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change
the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.
Who should NOT take this medication?
Bromocriptine should not be used by anyone who:
- is allergic to bromocriptine, other ergot alkaloids, or any of the ingredients
of this medication
- has uncontrolled high blood pressure
- has high blood pressure disorders of pregnancy
- has high blood pressure after birth of infant
- has coronary artery disease and other severe heart conditions
- has symptoms or history of serious psychiatric disorders
- has certain hereditary conditions including galactose intolerance, severe
lactose deficiency, or glucose-galactose absorption problems