Parlodel
Generic name: Bromocriptine
Bromocriptine tablets or capsules comes from a group of medicines known as ergot alkaloids. It blocks the release of a hormone called prolactin that affects the menstrual cycle and breast milk production. Bromocriptine is useful in treating menstrual and fertility problems and symptoms caused by cancers (adenomas) that raise prolactin levels in the body. Bromocriptine can be used to treat Parkinson's disease. The drug is also helpful in treating acromegaly (excessive growth hormone).
What should I tell my health care provider before I take Parlodel?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
history of heart attack
heart or vessel disease
high or low blood pressure
irregular heart rate
liver disease
mental disorders
retroperitoneal fibrosis
seizures (convulsions)
ulcers or history of ulcers
an unusual or allergic reaction to bromocriptine, ergot alkaloids, sulfites, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
pregnant or trying to get pregnant
breast-feeding
How should Parlodel be used?
Take Parlodel tablets or capsules by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Swallow the tablets or capsules with a drink of water. It is best to take Parlodel with food to help with symptoms such as upset stomach. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take Parlodel more often than directed. Do not stop taking except on your prescriber's advice.
Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of Parlodel in children. Special care may be needed.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is more than 4 hours since your dose was due, wait until your next dose. Do not take double or extra doses.
What drug(s) may interact with bromocriptine?
alcohol
cabergoline
cyclosporine
dihydroergotamine
ergoloid mesylates
ergonovine or methylergonovine
ergotamine
erythromycin or related medicines such as clarithromycin, dirithromycin, and troleandomycin
female hormones, including contraceptive or birth control pills
imatinib
levodopa
medicines for HIV infection (such as amprenavir, delavirdine, efavirenz, indinavir, nelfinavir, ritonavir, saquinavir)
medicines for high blood pressure
medicines for mental depression
medicines for mental problems and psychotic disturbances
memantine
methysergide
metoclopramide
sirolimus
tacrolimus
tamoxifen
Tell your doctor about all other medicines you are taking, including nonprescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your doctor before stopping or starting any of your medicines.
What side effects may I notice from taking bromocriptine?
Side effects that you should report to your doctor as soon as possible:
Rare or uncommon:
unusual bleeding
blurred vision
difficulty breathing
fainting spells, dizziness or lightheadedness
unusual or severe headache
irregular heartbeat, chest pain or palpitations
numbness, tingling, or burning in hands or feet
rash or hives
seizures (convulsions)
spasm in fingers or toes, or unusual muscle movements
stomach pain
vomiting
More common:
changes in blood pressure
confusion or hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that are not really there)
persistent, watery nasal discharge
severe weakness or tiredness
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
anxiety or nervousness
diarrhea or constipation
difficulty sleeping
drowsiness
dry mouth or metallic taste in mouth
headache
loss of appetite
nausea
ringing in ears
runny nose, or stuffy nose
mild stomach cramps
mild swelling in feet
tiredness
mild weakness
What should I watch for while taking bromocriptine?
Visit your doctor for regular checks on your progress. Ask your doctor if you should check your blood pressure regularly, especially if you get severe headaches, and report changes in blood pressure if they occur. Contact your provider promptly if you develop an unusual or severe headache or have changes in your vision.
If you stop taking bromocriptine when it is being used for tumor treatment, the tumor may regrow quickly, and your original symptoms may return. Do not stop taking Parlodel unless your prescriber tells you to.
You may get dizzy or drowsy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that requires mental alertness until you know how bromocriptine affects you. To reduce the risk of dizzy or fainting spells, do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. Alcohol can make you more dizzy, and increase flushing and rapid heartbeats. Avoid alcoholic drinks. Dizziness is more common after the first dose. Take it before bedtime if possible and be careful getting out of bed.
Avoid exposure to cold. Contact your provider promptly if you experience tingling, burning, or numbness in your hands or feet.
Your mouth may get dry. Chewing sugarless gum or sucking hard candy, and drinking plenty of water, will help.
If you are going to have surgery, tell your prescriber or health care professional that you are taking bromocriptine.
Where can I keep Parlodel?
Keep out of the reach of children in a container that small children cannot open.
Store at room temperature below 25 degrees C (77 degrees F). Do not freeze. Protect from light. Keep container tightly closed. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.
|
