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.
