Parlodel (Bromocriptine) is an ergoline derivative and a dopamine agonist that is used to treat type 2 diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, acromegaly, hyperprolactinaemia (high levels of prolactin), tumors that secrete prolactin, and other conditions caused by prolactin anomalies. For conditions caused by high levels of prolactin, Parlodel works by inhibiting the production of prolactin by the pituitary gland. This can also help if treat Acromegaly, as that is caused by high levels of growth hormones from the pituitary gland. For the treatment of Parkinson’s disease, Parlodel acts as a dopamine receptor agonist, which means that it binds to and stimulates dopamine receptors. Parkinson’s disease is caused by low levels of dopamine in the brain, so the symptoms can be reduced by Parlodel acting as dopamine. For the treatment of type 2 diabetes, Parlodel is effective in improving blood sugar control, along with diet and exercise. You should not use Parlodel if you have uncontrolled high blood pressure, high blood pressure caused by pregnancy, or if you have recently had a baby and you have a history of coronary artery disease or severe heart disease. You may need to stop taking Parlodel if you become pregnant during treatment. To make sure Parlodel is safe for you, tell your doctor about any medications you are currently taking, or if you have high or low blood pressure, heart conditions, liver or kidney disease, pituitary gland tumor, a stomach ulcer or history of stomach bleeding, or a history of mental illness or psychosis.
Common side effects of Parlodel include dizziness or a spinning sensation, mild drowsiness, mild headache, depressed mood, insomnia, dry mouth, upset stomach or stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, diarrhea or constipation, or cold feeling or numbness in your fingers. Talk to your doctor about how to deal with these side effects if they persist. Stop taking Parlodel and contact your doctor immediately if you experience vision problems, chest pain, fast heart rate, breathing problems, back pain, swelling in limbs, urinating less than usual, confusion, hallucinations, uncontrollable muscle movements, loss of balance, unusual stools, or bloody coughs or vomit. As well, contact your doctor if you notice signs of low blood sugar, which can include headache, hunger, weakness sweating, tremors, and trouble concentrating. Seek emergency medical attention if you experience signs of an allergic reaction, or symptoms of dangerously high blood pressure, which can include severe headache, blurred vision, buzzing in your ears, anxiety, confusion, chest pain, shortness of breath, uneven heartbeats, or seizures.
Parlodel Availability
Big Mountain Drugs currently offers the brand Parlodel from United Kingdom and Australia by Novartis and Meda Pharms in the dosages of 1 mg, 2.5 mg and 5 mg tablets. The generic Bromocriptine is available from Canada by a different manufacturer in the strength of 2.5 mg and 5 mg capsules.