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February 8, 2012
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cabergoline - oral, Dostinex

GENERIC NAME: CABERGOLINE - ORAL (ka-BER-goe-leen)

BRAND NAME(S): Dostinex

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

USES: This medication is used to treat high levels of prolactin hormone in your body. High levels of prolactin in women can cause symptoms such as unwanted breast milk and missed periods and can cause difficulty becoming pregnant. High levels of prolactin in men can cause symptoms such as enlarged breasts and decreased sexual ability/desire. Cabergoline is an ergot medication and works by blocking the release of prolactin from the pituitary gland.

HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth with or without food, usually twice a week or as directed by your doctor.The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment (prolactin levels). Your doctor will start you at a low dose and slowly increase your dose over several months to help decrease side effects. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully.Take this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, mark the days on the calendar when you need to take the medication.Tell your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.

SIDE EFFECTS: Nausea, vomiting, stomach upset, constipation, dizziness, lightheadedness, or tiredness may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.Tell your doctor immediately if any of these rare but serious side effects occur: shortness of breath, persistent cough, swelling ankles/feet, unusual tiredness, mental/mood changes (such as nervousness, compulsive behavior including urge to gamble), vision changes, painful menses, breast pain.A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.In the US -Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.




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You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.


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cabergoline - oral, Dostinex

What is a prolactinoma (pituitary tumor)?

A prolactinoma is a benign tumor (called an adenoma) of the pituitary gland. A prolactinoma produces an excessive amount of the hormone prolactin. Prolactin is a natural hormone which supports a woman's normal lactation (breastfeeding). Prolactinomas are the most common type of pituitary tumor. Symptoms of prolactinoma are caused by pressure of the tumor on surrounding tissues or by excessive release of prolactin from the tumor into the blood (causing a condition known as hyperprolactinemia).

What is the normal function of prolactin?

Prolactin stimulates the breast tissues to enlarge during pregnancy. After delivery of the baby, the mother's prolactin level falls unless she breastfeeds her infant. Each time the baby nurses from the breasts, prolactin levels rise to maintain milk production.

What is the pituitary gland?

Sometimes called the master gland, the ...

Read the Prolactinoma (Pituitary Tumor) article »




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