Dopamine Stimulators

Bromocriptine (Parlodel), cabergoline (Dostinex)

• How dopamine stimulators work: These drugs act on dopamine receptors in the brain.
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• Who should not use these medications: Individuals with allergies to dopamine stimulators, poorly controlled high blood pressure, heart disease, and/or blood vessel disorders should not take dopamine stimulators.
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• Use: Tablets are swallowed, and the dose is gradually increased.
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• Drug or food interactions: Amitriptyline, butyrophenones, imipramine, methyldopa, phenothiazines, and reserpine may decrease dopamine stimulators’ effects. Some drugs used to treat migraine headaches may increase dopamine stimulators’ toxicity.
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• Side effects: Side effects include nausea, vomiting, headaches, nasal congestion, and low blood pressure (may cause dizziness or fainting). Tolerance to side effects develops over time. These drugs must be used with caution in people who have kidney or liver disease.