Bromocriptine

Trade names

• PRAVIDEL
• PARLODEL

Actions

• Potent agonist of dopamine D2 receptors.
• Agonist of various serotonin receptors.
• Inhibits glutamate release by reversing the glutamate GLT1 transporter.

Route of Administration

Oral (IV formulation also exists)

Bioavailability

28%

Plasma protein binding

96%

Half-life

12-14 hours

Metabolism

Hepatic

Elimination

Biliary 85%, renal 2.5-5.5%

Important side-effects

Nausea and vomiting

Orthostatic hypotension

Vasospasm and Raynaud’s phenomenon.

Impaired impulse control (gambling, compulsive shopping, compulsive eating, etc).

Hypersexuality.

Recommended dose

Start with 1.25 mg twice daily

Increase with 2.5 mg per day at intervals of 2 weeks after effect and tolerance.

The safety of bromocriptine mesylate has not been demonstrated in dosages exceeding 100 mg per day.

Renal impairment

Not enough data exist on the safety of bromocriptine in patients with impaired renal function.

Hepatic impairment

Not enough data exist on the safety of bromocriptine in patients with impaired hepatic function.