Common use

Bromocriptine is a stimulator of the central and peripheral D2-dopamine receptors (a derivative of ergot alkaloids). It inhibits a secretion of prolactin, suppresses the physiological lactation, promotes normalization of periods, inhibits an excessive secretion of growth hormone, reduces size and number of cysts in the breast (normalizing the imbalance between progesterone and estrogen). Its high doses stimulate dopamine receptors in the striatum, the substantia nigra in brain, hypothalamus and mesolimbic system. Bromocriptine is used to treat infertility in some women, abnormal stoppage or absence of flow in periods, growth hormone overproduction leading to acromegaly, Parkinson's disease, pituitary gland tumors.



Dosage and direction

Take this medication when you are in a lying position and do not rise up quickly after the intake. Do not stop to take this drug even if your symptoms do not change and it seems that no result is achieved. Bromocriptine may require longterm treatment before its effect is manifestated.



Precautions

In case of a severe headache which does not stop but only worsens, and if experience including seizure, stroke, or heart attack after taking Bromocriptine contact your doctor. If you became pregnant using this drug inform your doctor immediately about it. Also notify your doctor if you have liver or kidney disease, hypertension, circulation problems or heart attack in history before to use Bromocriptine. Cautiousness should be exercised in patients with mental problems, any disease of the heart and circulatory system, peptic ulcer, or bleeding in the stomach and intestines. This medication affects ability to drive a car or operate machinery.



Contraindications

Hypersensitivity, gestosis, arterial hypertension after delivery of a baby, essential tremors and familial tremor, Huntington's disease, cardiovascular diseases, endogenous psychosis, hypertension, hypotension, liver failure, ulcerative lesions of gastrointestinal tract. Cautiously should be exercised in patients with Parkinson disease (including signs of dementia), pregnancy, simultaneous treatment for hypertension.



Possible side effect

Bromocriptine usually does not have any side effects but if any appear consult your doctor as you may need immediate medical help. These are symptoms you should be very attentive to while taking Bromocriptine: Abdominal cramps or discomfort, confusion, constipation, depression, diarrhea, dizziness, drop in blood pressure, drowsiness, dry mouth, a persistent watery nasal discharge, hallucinations (particularly in Parkinson's patients), headache, inability to sleep, indigestion, light-headedness, loss of coordination, nausea.



Drug interaction

Alcohol beverages may worsen side effects of Bromocriptine (tachycardia, chest pain, nausea). Inform your doctor if you are taking blood pressure-lowering drugs (Aldomet and Catapres), Metoclopramide (Reglan), oral contraceptives, any ergot derivatives (Hydergine, Pimozide). Effectiveness of oral contraceptives may be decreased if they are taken with Bromocriptine.



Missed dose

Take it as soon as you remember but not if it is more than 4 hours since the time of intake you missed. If you remembered about the missed dose after 4 hours and more since the time you missed it, just skip this intake and return to your regular schedule. Do not double dose this medication.



Overdose

If you suspect that you took too much of the medication seek for immediate medical attention and drink glass of milk. Possible overdose symptoms include pale skin, sweating, and repetitive yawning.



Storage

Store Bromocriptine in a dry tight container away from sunlight at room temperature between 15-30 C (59-86 F) away from children and pets.



Disclaimer

We provide only general information about medications which does not cover all directions, possible drug integrations, or precautions. Information at the site cannot be used for self-treatment and self-diagnosis. Any specific instructions for a particular patient should be agreed with your health care adviser or doctor in charge of the case. We disclaim reliability of this information and mistakes it could contain. We are not responsible for any direct, indirect, special or other indirect damage as a result of any use of the information on this site and also for consequences of self-treatment.