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Dopamine Agonist (D2 Receptor) / Prolactin Inhibitor

Bromocriptine

Brand names: Parlodel

Bromocriptine is an ergot-derived dopamine agonist used for hyperprolactinaemia and acromegaly, and sometimes for lactation suppression (with caution). It is used under specialist care.

Dosing — being independently re-sourced

ClinCalc Pro is rebuilding its dose data from primary open sources — the manufacturer SmPC (eMC), the WHO Model Formulary and other official references — under clinician review. This drug's structured dose is not yet published here. Confirm all doses against the product SmPC and your local formulary before prescribing.

US labelling (FDA)

Reference — US labelling, may differ from UK

DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION General It is recommended that bromocriptine mesylate be taken with food. Patients should be evaluated frequently during dose escalation to determine the lowest dosage that produces a therapeutic response. Hyperprolactinemic Indications The initial dosage of bromocriptine mesylate tablets in adults is half to one 2.5 mg scored tablet daily. An additional 2.5 mg tablet may be added to the treatment regimen as tolerated every 2 to 7 days until an optimal therapeutic response is achieved. The therapeutic dosage ranged from 2.5-15 mg daily in adults studied clinically. Based on limited data in children of age 11 to 15, (see Pediatric Use) the initial dose is half to …

Source: US FDA prescribing information (openFDA / DailyMed), label dated 2023-05-31. Accessed 2026-06-12. US dosing and indications can differ from UK practice — use UK sources for prescribing decisions.

Clinical monograph

How it works

It is a dopamine D2 receptor agonist; stimulating pituitary dopamine receptors inhibits prolactin secretion and can reduce growth hormone in acromegaly.

Prescribing in practice

  • Fibrotic reactions (pulmonary, retroperitoneal and cardiac valve) can occur, particularly with prolonged or higher-dose use.
  • Psychiatric effects and impulse-control disorders (e.g. pathological gambling, hypersexuality) may develop.
  • Postural hypotension can occur, especially on initiation; introduce gradually.

Monitoring

Monitor prolactin and clinical response; remain alert for fibrotic reactions, psychiatric changes and impulse-control symptoms.

Counselling the patient

  • Tell your clinician about new urges such as gambling or changes in sexual behaviour.
  • Report breathlessness, persistent cough or chest pain.
  • Rise slowly from sitting or lying to reduce dizziness.

Evidence & guidelines

Established dopamine agonist; used under specialist supervision per the SPC.

Reference: Endocrine Society Prolactinoma Guidelines 2011; Drug verified in RxNorm (NLM); confirm dosing against the manufacturer SPC (eMC). Verify against your local formulary and current prescribing references before prescribing. Monograph status: clinician-reviewed (2026-07-04).

Related

Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.

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