Description

Parlodel (Bromocriptine) 5mg

Parlodel (Bromocriptine) 5 mg is a dopamine agonist used to treat several conditions related to hormone imbalance and neurological disorders, especially those involving prolactin and dopamine.

Quick Overview

• Brand name: Parlodel

• Generic name: Bromocriptine

• Strength: 5 mg

• Drug class: Dopamine receptor agonist

• Prescription required

Used For

1. Parkinson’s Disease

   • Helps manage tremors, stiffness, and movement difficulties

   • Often used with or instead of levodopa

2. Hyperprolactinemia

   • Treats excess prolactin levels (causing menstrual problems, infertility, lactation in non-pregnant people)

3. Prolactinomas

   • Shrinks prolactin-secreting pituitary tumors

4. Acromegaly

   • Lowers growth hormone levels

5. Type 2 Diabetes (in some cases)

   • Helps improve blood sugar control (marketed separately under Cycloset)

How It Works

Parlodel mimics dopamine, a natural brain chemical that helps inhibit prolactin release and stimulate movement pathways. In Parkinson’s, it improves motor symptoms. In hyperprolactinemia, it restores normal hormone balance.

🕒 How to Take It

• Start low, go slow: Often begins with 1.25 mg once or twice daily, then slowly increased to avoid side effects

• Parkinson’s disease dose: 5–30 mg/day (in divided doses)

• Take with food to reduce nausea

• Follow your doctor’s schedule carefully, as abrupt changes can cause problems

Common Side Effects

• Nausea or vomiting

• Dizziness or drowsiness

• Headache

• Fatigue

• Constipation

• Nasal stuffiness

Serious Risks

• Orthostatic hypotension (sudden drop in blood pressure when standing)

• Hallucinations or confusion (especially in older adults)

• Compulsive behaviors (gambling, shopping, etc.—a rare dopamine-related side effect)

• Fibrosis (lung, heart, or abdominal scarring — rare but serious, typically with high doses/long-term use)

• Heart valve problems (rare—monitoring may be required)

Avoid If You Have:

• Uncontrolled high blood pressure

• Heart valve disorders

• Severe liver disease

• History of psychosis

• Use with caution if pregnant—only under medical supervision

 Summary

Parlodel (Bromocriptine) 5 mg is a versatile dopamine agonist used for treating Parkinson’s disease, high prolactin levels, and prolactinomas. It’s effective but requires careful dose titration and monitoring for side effects, especially with long-term or high-dose use.