Bromocriptine(Horm & Contrac)
Bromocriptine mesylate, also known by the brand name Parlodel, is a medication used to treat a variety of conditions, including:
- High levels of prolactin (hyperprolactinemia): This can cause problems such as unwanted breast milk, missed or irregular periods, difficulty becoming pregnant, decreased sperm production, and decreased sexual function.
- Parkinson's disease: This is a neurodegenerative disorder that affects movement, balance, and coordination. Bromocriptine is used alone or with other medications to improve symptoms.
- Acromegaly: This is a condition caused by too much growth hormone in the body. Bromocriptine can help to shrink tumors that are causing the excess hormone production and improve symptoms.
- Type 2 diabetes: Bromocriptine is sometimes used as an add-on therapy to help control blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes.
It works by mimicking the effects of dopamine, a chemical messenger in the brain. Dopamine helps to control movement, prolactin production, and other important functions. By increasing dopamine levels, bromocriptine can improve symptoms of Parkinson's disease and acromegaly, and lower prolactin levels.
Bromocriptine is available as a tablet that is taken by mouth. It is important to take it exactly as prescribed by your doctor. The most common side effects of bromocriptine include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, lightheadedness, headache, and fatigue. Serious side effects are rare but can include heart attack, stroke, and mental health problems.