What does it do?

Cabergoline is used to stop breast milk production, and treat conditions caused by high amounts of a hormone called prolactin. It is also sometimes used for other conditions.

Before you start

• Tell your doctor if you have fibrosis (scarring) of the heart, lungs or abdomen, or a mental health problem.
• 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 cabergoline.

How should you take it?

Take cabergoline 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 cabergoline 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. 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) Falling asleep without warning Numb or cold hands or feet	Tell your doctor
Drowsiness, tiredness or weakness Headache 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:

• Cabergoline 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?)