Quinagolide

Products

Quinagolide is commercially available in tablet form (Norprolac). It has been approved in many countries since 1994.

Structure and properties

Quinagolide (C20H33N3O3S, Mr = 395.56 g/mol) is a non-ergoline dopamine agonist with a similar structure to apomorphine. It is present in drugs as quinagolide hydrochloride.

Effects

Quinagolide (ATC G02CB04) has dopaminergic properties and inhibits prolactin secretion. The effects are due to selective agonism at the dopamine D2 receptor. Quinagolide has a long half-life between 11.5 to 17 hours (steady state), allowing once-daily administration.

Indications

For the treatment of hyperprolactinemia.

Dosage

According to the SmPC. Treatment is started cautiously with a starter pack. Subsequently, tablets are taken once daily.

Contraindications

  • Hypersensitivity
  • Liver or kidney dysfunction

For complete precautions, see the drug label.

Interactions

Dopamine antagonists such as neuroleptics may reverse the effects. Alcohol should not be consumed during treatment because it may increase adverse effects.

Adverse effects

The most common possible adverse effects include vomiting, nausea, fatigue, dizziness, and headache.