Bromocriptine
Uses of Bromocriptine
Bromocriptine is commonly used to treat Acromegaly, Female Infertility, Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
How Bromocriptine Works
Bromocriptine is a dopamine agonist which activates postsynaptic dopamine receptor and lead to a reduction in prolactin and growth hormone secretion. It also stimulates the nigrostriatal pathways thus reducing the Parkinson symptoms.
Side Effects of Bromocriptine
Nausea, Vomiting, Drowsiness, Low blood pressure, Blocked nose, Headache, Dry mouth, Constipation, Hallucination, Delusion, Visual disturbance
Warnings
Kidney Safe If Prescribed
There is no need for dosage adjustment in patient with renal impairment according to the manufacturer labelling. Bromocriptine also is excreted via feces which does not involve with renal physiology.
Alcohol Not Advisable
Alcohol is not advisable to be consumed when taking Bromocriptine as the side effects of Bromocriptine or the alcohol can be augmented due to their action on the central nervous system.
Pregnancy Maybe Safe
A large data on human pregnancy has indicated that there is no risk of teratogenicity and risk to the pregnancy itself. It is advisable to closely monitor Bromocriptine treatment in pregnant women.
Driving Not advisable
It is not advisable to drive while taking Bromocriptine due to its possible side effects to the eyes such as visual disturbance and drowsiness which can affect the concentration and ability to drive.
Liver Use With Care
Due to extensive hepatic metabolism, caution should be taken when consuming Bromocriptine. Dosage adjustment may be needed according to the severity of the impairment.
Lactation Not Advisable
Bromocriptine inhibits prolactin secretion which is essential for breastmilk production. The use of Bromocriptine will inhibit breastmilk production, hence other alternatives should be sought.
Frequently Asked Questions
Written by Dr Sri Viknarajan, MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)
Reviewed by Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli, MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).
