Cabergoline

Molecule Description

Cabergoline is a ‘Dopamine Agonist,’ which is used to treat Parkinson’s disease

(a disease of the brain that causes tremors).

Uses

Contraindications

Side effects

Precautions and Warnings

Uses of Cabergoline

Treat symptoms of a nerve disorder due to deficiency of Dopamine (Parkinson’s disease) in whom other treatment options were not effective. Cabergoline can be used alone or in combination with other me...

Contraindications of Cabergoline

When should one not use Cabergoline

Allergy to Cabergoline or any components of the medicine, or to other medicines of the similar group called ‘Ergot Alkaloids’
Any disease of the heart valves (long term usage of Cabergoline also can affect the heart valves)
History of stomach, lung or heart disorders

Side effects of Cabergoline

Common side effects of this drug are:

Heart valve and related problems, infection of the lining of the heart (pericarditis) – difficulty in breathing, pounding heartbeat (palpitations), pain in the chest, back and hip region, swelling of ...
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Feeling sick (nausea), accumulation of fluid causing swelling of feet and ankles
Vomiting, digestion problems, stomach pain, irritation of lining of the stomach, constipation, low blood pressure, sleep disturbances, confusion, headache, dizziness, spinning of head, weakness, breat...
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Strong feeling or impulse to do things which you would not do normally – gambling, increased sexual drive, excessive spending, shopping or eating
Severe allergic skin reactions causing rashes, itching, burning, redness, swelling, muscle spasms (hard and painful), fatigue, psychiatric disorders (uncommon)

Precautions and Warnings of Cabergoline

Pregnancy

Can I take Cabergoline during pregnancy?

Parkinson’s disease is unlikely to affect women of reproductive age. However, data suggests Cabergoline has the potential to harm the unborn baby and must be used in pregnant women only if alternatives do not exist. It is also advised to use birth control methods to avoid getting pregnant while using Cabergoline.

Breast Feeding

Can I take Cabergoline while breastfeeding?

It is unknown if Cabergoline secretes in breast milk, but the production of breast milk in the mother can be affected by this medicine. It is recommended to avoid Cabergoline while breastfeeding.

Driving

Can I drive if I have consumed Cabergoline?

Cabergoline is used to treat a disorder that causes a lack of coordination in movements. It also causes side effects such as drowsiness, feeling sleepy, or decreased alertness. Hence caution is advised if you have to drive while taking this medicine and avoid driving in the presence of side effects.

Alcohol

Can I consume alcohol with Cabergoline?

In disorders of the brain, alcohol is not safe because it depresses brain activity and can increase the side effects. If you are taking Cabergoline, limit your consumption of alcohol.

Other General Warnings

Talk to your doctor if

Heart, lung or liver problems
Reduced blood supply to hands and feet in cold conditions (Raynaud's disease)
Ulcers or bleeding of the stomach and intestines
Psychiatric disorders
Growth of scar tissue (fibrosis) in the heart, lungs or the stomach
Regular monitoring of heart, lungs, kidneys, and blood is required, especially if long-term treatment with Cabergoline is planned

Mode of Action of Cabergoline

How Does It Work?

Dopamine is a substance secreted in the brain that transmits signals (neurotransmitters), whose primary function is to regulate movements. Cabergoline acts by increasing Dopamine levels in the brain a...

Interactions of Cabergoline

Interactions with other medicines

Cabergoline may interact with medicines used to treat migraine (Ergot medicines), sickness or vomiting (Metoclopramide), mental illness (Prochlorperazine, Chlorpromazine, Haloperidol, Chlorprothixene)
Antibiotics (Erythromycin, Clarithromycin)

Interactions with food items

You are advised to take Cabergoline with food and a glass of water.

Dosage of Cabergoline

Overdose

Unintentional overdose with Cabergoline may not be harmful. But if you experience any side effects such as stomach pain, low blood pressure, vomiting, or any behavioral changes, consult your doctor.

Missed a Dose

Take the missed dose as promptly as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is too late, but do not take extra medicine to compensate for the missed dose.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is Parkinson’s disease, and how can this affect me?

A: Parkinson’s disease is caused due to age-related death of nerve cells in the brain that secrete Dopamine. Decreased levels of Dopamine in the brain will cause problems with movement, loss of coordinated actions, and loss of control over some functions. Unintentional tremors, slow movement, loss of balance, and stiffness are the main symptoms. Parkinson’s disease may not be curable. Still, the symptoms can be controlled, and the patient can lead an ordinary life if he or she takes medicines regularly and exercises caution and is monitored effectively.

Q: What else should I know before starting Cabergoline?

A: Cabergoline can lower your blood pressure (especially when you suddenly stand up or sit down), most commonly in the first few days. You need not stop the treatment, but consulting your doctor is necessary. Long-term therapy with Cabergoline can cause side effects and should be monitored carefully. Regular testing of the functions of your heart, lungs, kidneys, and blood are required. Cabergoline can cause specific behavioral side effects such as urge or impulse to gamble, spend money, eat, increased sexual drive, etc. (impulse control disorders). If you experience such side effects, inform your doctor promptly, as he/ she may stop your treatment.

References

Last Updated on: 05 Oct 2020 | 10:47 PM (IST)

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Disclaimer

The information provided herein is supplied to the best of our abilities to make it accurate and reliable as it is published after a review by a team of professionals. This information is solely intended to provide a general overview on the product and must be used for informational purposes only. You should not use the information provided herein to diagnose, prevent, or cure a health problem. Nothing contained on this page is intended to create a doctor-patient relationship, replace or be a substitute for a registered medical practitioner's medical treatment/advice or consultation. The absence of any information or warning to any medicine shall not be considered and assumed as an implied assurance. We highly recommend that you consult your registered medical practitioner for all queries or doubts related to your medical condition. You hereby agree that you shall not make any health or medical-related decision based in whole or in part on anything contained in the Site. Please click here for detailed T&C.