Bromocriptine: Uses, Side Effects, and What You Need to Know

When you hear bromocriptine, a dopamine agonist that lowers prolactin and mimics brain signals to control movement. Also known as Parlodel, it’s been used for over 40 years to treat conditions from infertility to Parkinson’s. Unlike newer drugs, bromocriptine works directly on dopamine receptors in the brain and pituitary gland—making it a go-to for stopping unwanted milk production, shrinking pituitary tumors, and easing tremors.

It’s not just for hormonal issues. People with Parkinson’s disease, a neurological disorder that breaks down movement control often take bromocriptine to help with stiffness and shaking, especially when other meds lose their punch. It’s also used off-label for hyperprolactinemia, a condition where the body makes too much prolactin, leading to missed periods, low sex drive, or breast milk without pregnancy. Even in type 2 diabetes, some doctors use it to help the body respond better to insulin—though that’s still being studied.

But it’s not harmless. Nausea, dizziness, and low blood pressure are common—especially when you start. That’s why most people begin with a tiny dose and creep up slowly. If you’re on blood pressure meds, antidepressants, or antipsychotics, bromocriptine can clash badly. And if you’ve ever had heart valve problems or uncontrolled high blood pressure, your doctor will likely avoid it. It’s not a drug you take lightly.

What you’ll find in the posts below isn’t just a list of articles. It’s real-world guidance on how bromocriptine fits into the bigger picture of medication safety, drug interactions, and long-term management. You’ll see how it compares to other dopamine agonists, what to do if you miss a dose, how it affects fertility, and why some people need regular blood tests to monitor liver function. There’s no fluff—just clear, practical info from people who’ve been there.