Products
Bromocriptine is commercially available in tablet form (Parlodel). It was developed at Sandoz in the 1960s and has been approved in many countries since 1975. Generic versions are now available in many countries.
Structure and properties
Bromocriptine (C32H40BrN5O5, Mr = 654.6 g/mol) is a brominated derivative of the natural ergot alkaloid ergocryptine. It is present in drugs as bromocriptine mesilate, a white to pale colored, fine, crystalline powder that is practically insoluble in water.
Effects
Bromocriptine (ATC N04BC01, ATC G02CB01) has dopaminergic properties and inhibits the release of the anterior pituitary hormone prolactin. The effects are due to agonism at dopamine receptors. In acromegaly patients, stimulation of dopamine receptors additionally reduces growth hormone levels.
Indications
Indications for use include:
- Acromegaly
- Prolactin-related hypogonadism in men
- Prolactinomas
- Lactation inhibition
- Disorders of the menstrual cycle and infertility in women.
- Amenorrhea
- Oligomenorrhea
- Disturbed luteal phase
- Drug-induced hyperprolactinemic disorders.
- Polycystic ovary syndrome
- Anovulatory cycles
- Parkinson’s disease
Dosage
According to the professional information. The drug should be taken with meals.
Contraindications
For complete precautions, see the drug label.
Interactions
Bromocriptine is a substrate and inhibitor of CYP3A4. Appropriate drug-drug interactions with inhibitors and inducers may occur. Other interactions have been described with ergot alkaloids, sympathomimetics, triptans, dopamine antagonists, and alcohol, among others.
Adverse effects
The most common potential adverse effects include headache, dizziness, fatigue, nasal congestion, nausea, vomiting, and constipation.
