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bromocriptineBromocriptine is a type of drug called a dopamine agonist. It is used to suppress the production of the hormone prolactin. Prolactin stimulates the production of milk, but also prevents the release of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). An increased prolactin level is normal for women who are breastfeeding - a time when women naturally experience reduced fertility. Bromocriptine is used for women who produce an excess of prolactin (hyperprolactinemia). This can be ascertained through a blood test. Apart from ovulation problems, an important tell-tale sign of hyperprolactinemia is galactorrhoea (release of fluids from the nipples). If repeatedly high levels of prolactin are found in the blood, an examination will first be undertaken of the brain to rule out the possibility of a prolactinoma - a benign tumour in the pituitary gland of a woman) before bromocriptine is prescribed. how it worksBromocriptine is a dopamine agonist (dopamine is a substance called a neurotransmitter which sends messages between nerve cells in the brain). It works by mimicking dopamine in the body, thereby reducing the release of prolactin by the pituitary. It works rapidly. If there is no sign of ovulation (egg release) within the first two months doctors often add clomiphene to the treatment in order to stimulate ovulation. how it is administeredBromocriptine is taken everyday as a tablet. In order to reduce the possibility of side effects, it is a good idea to take it at night. Another way to reduce possible side effects is by slowly increasing the daily dose. Your doctor may advise you to initially cut the tablet in two and gradually move up to taking a complete tablet. You should stop taking this drug if/when you find out you are pregnant.possible side effectsIn principle, every medicine can have side effects, of varying degrees of severity. Not everyone will actually be aware of or experience side effects with a particular medicine. The following side effects have been reported with bromocriptine:.
resultsOvulation is achieved in 80% of women suffering from galactorrhoea and hyperprolactinemia. The ovulation mostly occurs before the galactorrhoea ceases. When treatment is stopped, approximately 41% of women stop menstruating (amenorrhoea) and galactorrhoea recurs in about 69% of women. |
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