What is Parlodel used for?
Parlodel treats Parkinson’s Disease and other conditions associated with high levels of prolactin in the blood, some of which include menstrual problems, excessive breast milk production, and acromegaly (the abnormal growth of body parts). Parlodel is also used for other conditions not mentioned in this guide.

Dose
Parlodel must be used as prescribed. Never make changes to the dosage without consulting with a doctor.

Missed Dose
A missed dose can be taken as long as a suitable length of time passes before the time of the next dose. Do not take a double dose.

Important information about this medication
Parlodel should not be taken by people who are allergic to bromocriptine or ergot alkaloids.

Parlodel should not be used by women who are breast-feeding or women who have recently given birth, or by people with untreated hypertension, any severe heart disorders or coronary artery disease. Parlodel should not be used by patients taking ergot alkaloid medications.

Your doctor will need to know if you have angina, irregular heart rate, hypertension, liver or kidney disease, mental problems, a history of vision disorders, narrowing of the blood vessels, a history of intestinal or stomach bleeding, or if you have suffered a recent heart attack.

Prior to taking Parlodel, you must provide your doctor with details of your medical history. This must include medications that you have used, or are using, as well as any dietary supplements such as vitamins and herbal medications.

Women who become pregnant while using Parlodel should immediately inform their doctor. The active ingredient in Parlodel may be secreted into breast milk which means that nursing mothers should not use this medication.

Efficacy and safety has not yet been established for the use of Parlodel by children under the age of 15 years – therefore Parlodel should be administered to children with extreme caution, and in strict accordance with a doctor’s instructions.

Parlodel may reduce the efficacy of oral contraceptives. It is therefore recommended that a secondary form of contraception be used during treatment with Parlodel.

If Parlodel is being used to treat a brain tumor, do not discontinue using this medication without consulting a doctor. Sudden discontinuance of treatment may result in the re-growth of the tumor.

When first using Parlodel, avoid driving or doing any dangerous activity to ensure that you do not experience any bad reactions to this medication. Avoid drinking alcohol while using Parlodel as it may increase the side-effects of dizziness and drowsiness. Hot weather can also increase dizziness and drowsiness.

What are the side-effects of this medication?
Symptoms of an allergic reaction include breathing problems, swelling (tongue, throat, face or lips), or hives. If any of these symptoms appear, call for medical assistance.

Symptoms of serious side-effects include black or bloody stools, involuntary jerking movements, fainting, depression, weakness on one side of the body, hallucinations, persistent runny nose, severe headache, ringing in the ears, shortness of breath, convulsions, speech problems, stomach pain, confusion, severe drowsiness, loss of co-ordination, vision problems, vomiting blood, or vomiting a substance that resembles coffee granules.

Less serious side-effects that usually occur in the early stages of treatment with this medication are cold toes and fingers, diarrhea, constipation, drowsiness, dizziness, dry mouth, headache, fatigue, light-headedness, indigestion, nausea, lack of appetite, stomach cramps, vomiting, or blocked nose.

This medication may cause other side-effects not mentioned above. Any uncomfortable symptoms that persist should be reported to your doctor.

If overdose is suspected
Symptoms of overdose may include hallucinations, confusion, excessive sweating, pale skin, persistent yawning, vomiting, or fatigue.

Storage instructions
Parlodel should be stored in a dry, cool place – away from moisture or direct sunlight.