What does it do?

Bromocriptine is used to treat Parkinson’s disease. It acts like a chemical in your brain called dopamine. Bromocriptine is also used to treat conditions caused by high amounts of a hormone called prolactin.

Before you start

• Tell your doctor if you have fibrosis (scarring) of the heart, lungs or abdomen, or a mental health problem.
• If you have recently given birth, you may have a higher chance of serious side effects, especially if you have heart problems or high blood pressure. Talk to your health professional.
• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
• Your doctor may do tests to check your heart and lungs before you start and while you are taking bromocriptine.

How should you take it?

Take bromocriptine regularly as directed with food and a glass of water.

What if you forget a dose?

If it is nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the usual time. Otherwise, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Do not take two doses at the same time.

Can you take other medicines?

Some medicines available without a prescription may react with bromocriptine including:

• fluconazole (e.g. Diflucan®) or miconazole (e.g. Daktarin Oral Gel®)
• prochlorperazine

Tell your pharmacist or doctor about all medicines or treatments that you may be taking, including vitamins, herbal products (e.g. kava, St John's wort) or recreational drugs.

What side effects might you notice?

Side Effects	Recommended action
Persistent dry cough, short of breath, swollen feet or legs Fast or irregular heartbeat, chest pain	Tell your doctor immediately
Unusual behaviour or thinking, hallucinations, confusion Unusual urges (e.g. gambling, eating, spending, sex) Strange or uncontrolled movements Falling asleep without warning Changes in vision Numb or cold hands or feet	Tell your doctor
Drowsiness, tiredness or weakness Headache Nasal stuffiness, dry mouth Stomach upset, constipation	Tell your doctor if troublesome
Lightheaded or dizzy after standing up	Stand up slowly. If it continues, or is severe, tell your doctor

If you notice any other effects, discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.

Other information:

• Bromocriptine can impair your ability to do tasks such as driving or using machines. Alcohol makes this worse. Discuss your risk with your health professional. (search NZTA - Are you safe to drive?)
• Limit alcohol intake while taking bromocriptine because it may increase side effects (e.g. dizziness or stomach upset).
• Do not stop taking bromocriptine without talking to your doctor first.