Bromocriptine tablets or capsules
What do bromocriptine tablets or capsules do?
BROMOCRIPTINE (Parlodel) comes from a group of medicines known as ergot alkaloids. It blocks the release of a hormone, called prolactin, that affects the menstrual cycle and breast milk production. Bromocriptine is useful in treating menstrual and fertility problems, and abnormal milk production. Bromocriptine can be used to treat Parkinson's disease. It is also helpful in treating acromegaly (excessive growth hormone).
What should my health care professional know before I take bromocriptine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
• heart disease
• liver disease
• high or low blood pressure
• mental disorders
• retroperitoneal fibrosis
• seizures (convulsions)
• an unusual or allergic reaction to bromocriptine, ergot alkaloids, sulfites, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding
How should I take this medicine?
Take bromocriptine tablets or capsule by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Swallow the tablets or capsules with a drink of water. It is best to take bromocriptine with food. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Do not stop taking except on your prescriber's advice.
Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is more than 4 hours since your dose was due, wait until your next dose. Do not take double or extra doses.
What other medicines can interact with bromocriptine?
• alcohol
• dihydroergotamine
• erythromycin
• female hormones, including contraceptive or birth control pills
• levodopa
• medicines for high blood pressure
• mediicnes for mental depression
• medicines for mental problems and psychotic disturbances
• methysergide
• water pills
Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including nonprescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.
What side effects may I notice from taking bromocriptine?
Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:
Rare or uncommon:
• blurred vision
• difficulty breathing
• fainting spells, dizziness or lightheadedness
• irregular heartbeat, chest pain or palpitations
• seizures (convulsions)
• vomiting
More common:
• confusion or hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that are not really there)
• persistent, watery nasal discharge
• severe weakness or tiredness
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
• diarrhea or constipation
• drowsiness
• dry mouth
• headache
• loss of appetite
• nausea
• mild weakness
• runny nose, or stuffy nose
• stomach pain