Important Note

The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

BROMOCRIPTINE - ORAL

(brom-oh-KRIP-teen)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Parlodel

Uses

This medication is used to treat Parkinson's Disease, menstrual irregularities, and to reduce or prevent breast milk production, except after childbirth (postpartum).

How To Use

Take with food or meals to prevent stomach upset. The first dose should be taken lying down as dizziness may occur especially with the first dose.

Side Effects

May cause drowsiness. Avoid tasks requiring alertness. Other side effects may include stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, indigestion, constipation, diarrhea, headache, fatigue, lightheadedness, insomnia, nasal congestion. These should subside as your body adjusts to the medication. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly. Notify your doctor if you develop: bloody vomit, confusion, fainting, depression, irregular pulse, shortness of breath, rash, tingling of hands or feet, involuntary movements, nightmares, vision changes. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Tell your doctor if you have a history of: heart attack, angina (chest pain), liver disease, kidney disease, psychiatric illness, circulation problems in the fingers during cold weather. Limit your consumption of alcoholic beverages. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. As this drug can be used to stop lactation, breast-feeding while using this drug is not recommended.

Drug Interactions

Before you take this drug, tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription drugs you are taking, especially of: oral contraceptives, levodopa, medication for high blood pressure, migraine headache drugs, drugs used for depression. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include severe weakness or dizziness, increased sweating, pale-looking skin, mental or mood changes.

Notes

Do not stop taking this drug suddenly without your doctor's approval. Do not allow anyone else to take this medication.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take as soon as remembered within 4 hours, otherwise skip that dose and resume usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

Storage

Store below 77 degrees F (below 25 degrees C) away from moisture and sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom.