Parlodel – What It Is, How It Works, and Who Needs It

When dealing with Parlodel, the brand name for bromocriptine, a dopamine agonist that lowers excess prolactin. Also known as bromocriptine, it is prescribed for conditions like hyperprolactinemia, an abnormally high level of the hormone prolactin and prolactinoma, a benign pituitary tumor that secretes prolactin.

Dopamine agonist, a class of drugs that mimic dopamine activity in the brain is the category where Parlodel belongs. By binding to dopamine receptors, the drug sends a signal that tells the pituitary gland to cut back on prolactin production. In short, Parlodel is a dopamine agonist that activates dopamine receptors, which in turn suppresses prolactin secretion. This chain of actions is why the medication is effective for both hyperprolactinemia and prolactinoma.

Why People Choose Parlodel

Patients often turn to Parlodel when they experience infertility, irregular periods, or unwanted breast milk production caused by high prolactin levels. Restoring normal hormone balance can improve menstrual regularity, boost ovulation chances, and reduce galactorrhea. For many, the drug also helps shrink small prolactin‑secreting tumors, offering an alternative to surgery. Because it works systemically, Parlodel can address symptoms even when the underlying tumor is not surgically removable.

The typical starting dose for adults is 2.5 mg taken once daily, usually with food to lessen stomach upset. Doctors may increase the dose gradually, often up to 15 mg per day, based on blood‑test results and how well the patient tolerates the medication. Regular monitoring of prolactin levels every 4‑6 weeks during the titration phase helps ensure the dose is effective without causing unnecessary side effects.

Speaking of side effects, the most common ones include nausea, headache, dizziness, and low blood pressure when standing up. These tend to improve after the first few weeks as the body adapts. Rare but serious reactions, such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or severe depression, require immediate medical attention. Because Parlodel can interact with certain blood‑pressure drugs and antidepressants, a full medication review is essential before starting therapy.

When a patient cannot tolerate Parlodel, doctors often consider other dopamine agonists like cabergoline or quinagolide. Cabergoline, for example, has a longer half‑life and can be taken once or twice a week, which many find more convenient. However, each drug carries its own risk profile, so the choice depends on individual health status, other medications, and personal preference.

Pregnancy is another important consideration. Women planning to become pregnant should discuss timing with their physician, as high prolactin levels can hinder conception. In many cases, once prolactin normalizes, doctors may pause Parlodel during the first trimester and resume after delivery if needed. Breast‑feeding while on a dopamine agonist is generally not recommended because the medication can suppress milk production.

Beyond the clinical details, practical tips can help patients get the most out of Parlodel. Taking the pill at the same time each day creates a steady drug level in the bloodstream. Pairing the dose with a light snack can reduce nausea. Keeping a simple log of symptoms, blood‑test results, and any side effects makes follow‑up appointments more productive.

All of these points set the stage for the articles below, which dive deeper into dosage strategies, safety checks, alternative therapies, and real‑world patient experiences. Whether you’re just hearing about Parlodel or you’ve been on it for months, the collection ahead offers clear, actionable information to guide your next steps.