BROMOKRIPTIN

This medicine contains the active ingredient bromocriptine which belongs to a group of medicines called dopamine agonists (for raising the amount of dopamine in the brain) and prolactin inhibitors (for reducing the amount of prolactin and growth hormone in the body). High levels of prolactin can cause infertility, breast problems and menstrual problems, non-cancerous tumors in the brain (prolactinomas) and bromocriptine is prescribed for the treatment of these problems, as well as for preventing or stopping breast milk production. It can also decrease growth hormone levels, so it is used for the treatment of extremely tall people, with large hands and feet (acromegaly).  Bromocriptine is prescribed when the low level of dopamine causes nerve messages to the muscles to become low (Parkinson's disease) which is symptomized by stiffness, shaking, and slowness of movement.

Is Bromocriptine suitable for me?

Bromocriptine is not suitable for everyone. Do not use it

• if you are allergic to bromocriptine or to other ingredients of this medicine
• if you have high blood pressure
• if you have, or have ever had, heart problems
• if you have, or have ever had, fibrosis
• if you have, or have ever had, mental health problems
• if you are breast-feeding

In particular, you must tell the doctor if you:

• have, or have ever had stomach ulcers
• have liver disease
• are pregnant, trying to get pregnant or have just given birth
• have a circulation problem (Raynaud's syndrome)
• have a rare inherited blood disorder (porphyria)
• have a non-cancerous tumor

Bromocriptine interacts with other medicines. It is most important that you tell the doctor all the medications and herbal supplements that you are currently taking.

See the package leaflet for a complete list of possible contraindications and warnings.

How should I take Bromocriptine?

This medicine is available in form of a tablet.

You should take bromocriptine exactly as instructed by your doctor or pharmacist.

• This medicine always needs to be taken with a meal.
• The starting dose will be lower at the beginning until your body adapts to the medicine. 

Do not use more of it, do not use it more often, or do not use it for a longer time than your doctor instructed. Also, this medicine works best if there is a constant amount in the blood. To help keep this amount constant, do not miss any doses and take the medicine at the same time each day. Do not take two doses together if you miss a dose.

Read the information leaflet provided with your medication for additional information. Talk to your doctor if you have any additional questions.

What are Bromocriptine side effects?

Like all medicines bromocriptine can cause side effects, including:

Common:

• headache
• dizziness
• drowsiness
• feeling and being sick
• constipation
• blocked nose

Uncommon:

• restlessness
• confusion or hallucinations
• dry mouth
• leg cramps
• itchy, red or swollen skin
• hair loss

Consult a doctor if the side effects are severe. See the package leaflet for a complete list of side effects.