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Cabergoline

Cabergoline is a tablet medicine for high prolactin levels. It is used in hyperprolactinaemia and prolactinoma. Treatment can affect the heart and fibrous tissues, and pregnancy needs careful discussion with a doctor.

Medicine containing Cabergoline

Dostinex

Hyperprolactinaemia, Prolactinoma

0.25 · 0.5mg

Dostinex contains cabergoline and is a tablet used in the management of hyperprolactinaemia and prolactinoma. You can choose from several strengths and pack sizes. Each option lists its price per tablet.

FromUS$6.37/ tabletView

Key points

  • Cabergoline belongs to the dopamine agonist therapeutic class and the ergot derivative pharmacological class.
  • Cabergoline is supplied in tablet form.
  • Cabergoline is not recommended for children.

What it is used for

Cabergoline is used for hyperprolactinaemia and prolactinoma. Both conditions are linked to high prolactin levels. The medicine lowers high blood levels of prolactin. Dostinex is the brand supplied for these two uses.

How it works

Cabergoline acts on dopamine receptors in the pituitary gland. By acting on these receptors, it inhibits prolactin secretion. This reduces high blood levels of prolactin. The effect begins about 3 hours after a dose and lasts 7 to 14 days.

Forms and brands

Dostinex tablets contain cabergoline as the active ingredient and are available through MayChemist in 0.25 mg and 0.5 mg strengths. The tablet is the dosage form. Orders are shipped to Malaysia from pharmacy partners in India in discreet packaging.

Who should avoid it and what to monitor

Cabergoline is contraindicated in uncontrolled hypertension and in people with a history of valvular heart disease. Regular cardiovascular monitoring is required during treatment. Alcohol should be avoided while taking cabergoline.

Side effects and interactions

Side effects can be minor, moderate or serious. The minor side effects are nausea and dizziness. Headache, constipation and somnolence are moderate side effects. These minor and moderate effects may occur during treatment. Valvular heart disease and fibrotic disorders are serious side effects that require immediate medical attention. Cabergoline interacts with antipsychotics and metoclopramide. Pregnancy should be discussed with a doctor; treatment is generally discontinued upon suspected pregnancy. Breastfeeding suitability should be confirmed with a qualified clinician or pharmacist before use.

Further reading

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