Have you been prescribed Cabergoline pills? Let's talk about this simply!

Sometimes, the balance of hormones in our body is lost. In particular, when the hormone 'Prolactin' increases in the blood, various health problems can occur in both women and men. So, has your doctor prescribed you a medicine called 'Cabergoline' to control your prolactin levels? So, let's talk about this medicine, what it does, and the things to be careful about in a friendly and simple way.

What is Cabergoline? What does it do?

Simply put, Cabergoline is a medication that helps reduce the level of a hormone called 'Prolactin' in your body. This hormone is produced by the pituitary gland. Although this hormone is usually high during pregnancy and breastfeeding, if it increases at other times, it can cause various problems.

Problems that can occur due to elevated prolactin levels:

• For women: Irregular menstrual cycles, infertility, breast milk secretion when not pregnant, and decreased sexual desire.
• For men: sexual dysfunction, decreased sexual desire, and sometimes breast enlargement.
• For both parties: Conditions such as bone loss.

In addition, this drug is also used to treat certain types of tumors that increase prolactin levels. In our country, this drug is often known by the brand name Dostinex.

What are the things I need to tell the doctor before starting this medication?

It is very important that your doctor has a complete picture of your health. Therefore, if you have any of the conditions listed below, you should definitely tell them about it before starting this medication.

• If you have heart disease.
• If you have high blood pressure or low blood pressure.
• If you have any liver disease.
• If you have any difficulty in your lungs or breathing.
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to Cabergoline or any other medicine, food, or dye.
• If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant.
• If you are breastfeeding your baby.

How should I use the medicine?

The method of using this medicine is very simple, but very important.

• Swallow this pill with a glass of water.
• Take only the prescribed amount, at the prescribed time, as prescribed by your doctor. Never take more than the prescribed amount.
• This medicine can be taken before or after meals.
• If you are giving this medicine to children, you should talk to a pediatrician about it. Special care may be needed.

What if you take too much medicine? (Overdose)

Imagine that you have taken more medicine than prescribed. If that happens , don't delay . As soon as possible, call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital , or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.

What if I miss a dose of medicine?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next dose at the scheduled time. Never take a double dose.

Special considerations when taking Cabergoline

It is very important to think about your safety while taking this medicine.

• Drowsiness and dizziness: Some people may experience drowsiness and dizziness when taking this medication. Therefore, avoid activities that require alertness, such as driving or operating machinery, until you know how this medication affects you.
• Don't stand up suddenly: Especially if you're older, don't stand up suddenly from sitting. Don't sit down from standing. Do these things slowly. That way, you're less likely to get dizzy and fall.
• Unusual Urges: This is very important. Some people taking this medication have reported that they may experience unusual sexual urges, gambling, spending money without control, or binge eating. If you experience any of these unusual behaviors or urges, it is important to tell your doctor as soon as possible, rather than feeling embarrassed.
• Regular medical check-ups: Check with your doctor regularly to see if your condition is improving and if the medication is working. You may also need to have blood tests to check your prolactin levels.

What side effects might I experience?

Like any medicine, Cabergoline can cause side effects. Some of these can be serious, so it's important to be aware of them.

What other medications may interact with this medicine?

Some other medications you are taking may interact with Cabergoline. Therefore, tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking (including vitamins, herbal remedies, and supplements). Especially if you are taking any of the following medications:

• Some medications used for mental illness (e.g. haloperidol, chlorpromazine).
• Medications for high blood pressure.
• Some medications used for nausea and vomiting (e.g. metoclopramide, promethazine).
• Some ergot drugs used for migraine.

Cabergoline, Dostinex, Prolactin, hormonal problems, side effects, women's health, men's health, medication details