Bromocriptine (By Mouth)

Bromocriptine (broe-moe-KRIP-teen)

Treats several different medical conditions including menstrual problems, growth hormone overproduction, Parkinson's disease, and pituitary tumors. Also used to stop breast milk production. Belongs to a class of drugs called ergot alkaloids.

Brand Name(s):

Parlodel
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not take bromocriptine if you have ever had an allergic reaction to bromocriptine or to other ergot alkaloid medicine, such as ergotamine. Bromocriptine should not be taken by children under 15 or women who are breastfeeding. You should not take bromocriptine if you have uncontrolled high blood pressure or toxemia of pregnancy.

How to Use This Medicine:

Capsule, Tablet

• Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to take and how often. Keep all medicine away from children.
• You may take your medicine with food or milk to avoid stomach upset.
• You may not feel the effects of bromocriptine until you have been taking it for 2 to 3 weeks.
• Do not stop taking bromocriptine unless your doctor tells you to.

If a dose is missed:

• Take your medicine as soon as you remember that you have missed your dose.
• If you are more than 4 hours late, wait until it is time for your next dose and skip the missed dose.
• You should not use two doses at one time.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• Keep your medicine at room temperature in a tightly closed container away from heat, light, and moisture.
• Drink plenty of liquids.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are taking birth control pills, estrogen (Estradiol® LA, Premarin®), progestin (Provera®, Norplant®), or levodopa (Dopar®).
• Avoid drinking alcohol while you are using bromocriptine.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Check with your doctor before taking this medicine if you have liver or kidney disease, stomach ulcers, heart disease, or have ever had problems with mental illness.
• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before taking this medicine.
• If you become pregnant while taking bromocriptine, call your doctor right away.
• The first dose of bromocriptine may make you dizzy. Take your first dose at a time and place where you can lie down. Be careful when driving or operating machinery.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Severe dizziness, fainting
• Severe headache
• Severe nausea and vomiting
• Swelling of feet or ankles, leg cramps
• Loss of bladder control

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Mild headache
• Confusion, hallucinations
• Nausea
• Dry mouth

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.