Cabergoline – What It Is and Why It Matters
If you’ve been told you have a high prolactin level, you probably heard about cabergoline. It’s a pill that lowers prolactin, the hormone that can cause unwanted breast milk, menstrual problems, or sexual issues when it’s too high. Doctors also use it for Parkinson’s disease and some rare hormone tumors. The good news is it works well for most people, but you need to know the basics before you start.
How Cabergoline Works
Cabergoline belongs to a group called dopamine agonists. In simple terms, it tricks the brain into thinking there’s enough dopamine, a chemical that tells the pituitary gland to stop making prolactin. When prolactin drops, symptoms usually improve fast. Most patients notice less nipple discharge, more regular periods, or better libido within a few weeks.
The drug stays in your system for a long time, so doctors often give it just once or twice a week instead of daily. That can be a relief if you hate taking pills every day. However, because it sticks around, any side effect can linger, so start low and watch how you feel.
Getting the Dose Right
Typical starting doses are tiny – often 0.25 mg once or twice a week. Your doctor will check blood work after a month and may increase the dose if prolactin is still high. Some people need up to 1 mg a week, but most stay below that.
Take the tablet with food to avoid stomach upset. If you miss a dose, just take it as soon as you remember, unless it’s almost time for the next one – then skip the missed one. Don’t double‑up, because that can raise the risk of nausea, dizziness, or low blood pressure.
Blood pressure can drop a little after the first dose, so it’s wise to sit down for 30 minutes after you swallow the pill. If you feel light‑headed, get up slowly. Most side effects fade after a few weeks as your body gets used to the medicine.
Common side effects include mild nausea, headache, and occasional constipation. A small number of people get more serious problems like heart valve changes. That’s why your doctor will order an echocardiogram if you stay on higher doses for a long time. Regular check‑ups keep things safe.
If you’re on other meds, tell your doctor. Cabergoline can interact with drugs that affect dopamine, such as certain antipsychotics, and with some blood pressure medicines. Alcohol can make dizziness worse, so it’s best to limit drinking while you’re adjusting the dose.
Pregnancy is another key point. Women who become pregnant while on cabergoline should stop the drug, because high prolactin is actually protective for the fetus. Talk to your doctor if you’re planning a family.
Overall, cabergoline is a powerful tool for fixing high prolactin. It’s cheap, taken only a couple of times a week, and works quickly for most people. The trick is to start low, track symptoms, and keep up with lab tests. If you notice any sudden chest pain, shortness of breath, or swelling in your legs, call a doctor right away – those could signal heart issues.
Bottom line: cabergoline can bring your hormone levels back to normal and lift the symptoms that are messing with your life. Stay on top of dosing, watch for side effects, and keep regular appointments. With the right plan, you’ll likely feel better in a month or two, and the long‑term outlook is usually great.
