Generic Bromocriptine

Introduction

Bromocriptine is a dopamine‑agonist medication that has been employed in the UK for a variety of endocrine and reproductive conditions. The active compound, Bromocriptine, belongs to the “Women’s Health” therapeutic group because of its primary indication for the management of hyperprolactinemia, a disorder that can disturb menstrual cyclicity and fertility. In addition, bromocriptine is approved for the treatment of Parkinsonian symptoms, certain types of pituitary tumours, and for the prevention of severe ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) in assisted reproduction. Its availability through our online pharmacy offers a cost‑effective generic alternative to the original branded formulations and enables patients in the UK to access the medication where conventional pharmacy supply may be limited.

What is Bromocriptine?

Bromocriptine is the generic version of the original brand Parlodel, containing the same active compound Bromocriptine. The drug was first synthesised in the 197 s by the French laboratory Boehringer Ingelheim and later marketed internationally under the Parlodel trademark. Our online pharmacy provides this generic alternative as a cost‑effective treatment option.

Bromocriptine is classified as a ergot‑derived dopamine D₂ receptor agonist. It is supplied as film‑coated tablets (typical strengths 2.5 mg, 5 mg, and 10 mg) for oral administration. The medication is authorised in the United Kingdom by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) and listed in the British National Formulary (BNF) for the indications noted above.

How Bromocriptine Works

The therapeutic effect of bromocriptine originates from its high affinity for dopamine D₂ receptors in the central nervous system. Activation of these receptors inhibits the release of prolactin from anterior pituitary lactotroph cells, thereby normalising serum prolactin concentrations. Lower prolactin reduces estrogen‑stimulated effects on the endometrium and ovarian tissue, which is why the drug is effective in restoring menstrual regularity and improving ovulatory function.

In Parkinsonism, dopamine agonism compensates for dopaminergic neuronal loss in the basal ganglia, leading to amelioration of rigidity, tremor, and bradykinesia. The drug’s half‑life is approximately 15 hours; steady‑state concentrations are achieved after 4–5 days of regular dosing. Metabolism occurs primarily via hepatic cytochrome P450 3A4, and biliary excretion is the major elimination route.

Conditions Treated with Bromocriptine

Hyperprolactinaemia

Elevated prolactin is a common endocrine disturbance in the UK, affecting ~.4 % of women presenting with menstrual irregularities. Bromocriptine restores normal prolactin levels in >80 % of patients, leading to resumption of ovulation and reduction of galactorrhoea.

Parkinson’s disease (early adjunct therapy)

Although levodopa remains the mainstay, bromocriptine is used as a mono‑therapy or adjunct in patients with mild‑to‑moderate disease, particularly when levodopa‑induced dyskinesias are problematic. Clinical trials have demonstrated a median reduction of 30 % in UPDRS motor scores.

Prolactin‑secreting pituitary adenomas

Micro‑adenomas (<10 mm) respond to bromocriptine with tumour shrinkage and prolactin normalisation. Macro‑adenomas may require combination with surgery or radiotherapy; however, bromocriptine can reduce tumour size by up to 50 % in responsive cases.

Prevention of severe OHSS in assisted reproduction

During in‑vitro fertilisation (IVF) protocols, bromocriptine is administered prophylactically to lower vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) activity, thereby decreasing capillary permeability and the incidence of life‑threatening OHSS. Studies in UK fertility centres report a 70 % reduction in severe OHSS when bromocriptine is used.

Who is Bromocriptine For?

Primary candidates

• Women with confirmed hyperprolactinaemia causing oligomenorrhoea, amenorrhoea, infertility, or galactorrhoea.
• Patients with a prolactin‑producing pituitary micro‑adenoma who prefer medical management over surgery.

Secondary candidates

• Adults with early‑stage Parkinsonian signs who cannot tolerate levodopa’s motor fluctuations.
• Individuals undergoing ovarian stimulation for IVF who are at high risk of OHSS (e.g., high estradiol levels, numerous follicles).

Contra‑indications / cautionary groups

• Patients with uncontrolled hypertension, recent myocardial infarction, or severe hepatic impairment, as bromocriptine may exacerbate cardiovascular stress.
• Pregnant or lactating women, except when used under specialist direction for OHSS prophylaxis, because safety data are limited.
• Individuals taking strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole) or drugs that prolong the QT interval, due to potential pharmacokinetic interactions and additive cardiac risk.

Clinical decision‑making should involve measurement of serum prolactin, imaging of the pituitary when appropriate, and assessment of comorbidities that could amplify adverse effects.

Risks, Side Effects, and Interactions

Common

• Nausea and vomiting – often transient, can be reduced by taking tablets with food.
• Dizziness or light‑headedness – related to orthostatic hypotension; advise slow positional changes.
• Headache – mild to moderate; usually resolves with continued treatment.
• Nasal congestion or mild upper‑respiratory symptoms – due to peripheral vasoconstriction.

Rare

• Hypotension (severe) – marked blood pressure fall; requires immediate medical review.
• Psychiatric disturbances – including hallucinations or mood swings; reported in <.1 % of users, predominantly in patients with pre‑existing psychiatric disease.
• Fibrosis of the retro‑peritoneal tissue – extremely uncommon, documented in long‑term dopaminergic therapy.

Serious

• Valvular heart disease – Dopamine agonists have been associated with valvulopathy in rare cases; baseline echocardiography is recommended for high‑risk patients.
• Severe allergic reactions – urticaria, angio‑oedema, or anaphylaxis; immediate discontinuation and emergency care required.
• Pulmonary fibrosis – rare but potentially fatal; monitor for persistent cough or dyspnoea.

Drug–Drug Interactions

• CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, clarithromycin) → increased bromocriptine exposure, heightened risk of hypotension and CNS effects.
• Antihypertensives (e.g., β‑blockers, calcium channel blockers) → additive vasodilatory action, may precipitate marked blood‑pressure fall.
• Antipsychotics (e.g., haloperidol, risperidone) → pharmacodynamic antagonism at dopamine receptors, reducing bromocriptine efficacy and possibly causing rebound hyperprolactinaemia.
• Levothyroxine – bromocriptine can delay absorption; separate administration times by at least 4 hours.

Patients must inform their healthcare professional of all concomitant medications, including over‑the‑counter products and herbal preparations.

Practical Use: Dosing, Missed Dose, Overdose

Standard dosing (UK reference)

• Hyperprolactinaemia: Starting dose 1.25 mg once daily (or 2.5 mg in divided doses) titrated to 5 mg daily; maintenance 5–10 mg daily depending on serum prolactin response.
• Parkinson’s disease: Initiation at .5 mg three times daily; gradual increase to 2.5–5 mg three times daily as tolerated.
• OHSS prophylaxis: 2.5 mg twice daily beginning on the day of ovulation trigger and continued for 5 days.

All tablets should be swallowed with a full glass of water. Taking with food reduces gastrointestinal irritation but may slightly delay absorption – clinicians may advise based on individual tolerance.

Missed dose
If a dose is forgotten, the patient should take it as soon as remembered unless it is close to the next scheduled dose; in that case, the forgotten tablet should be omitted. Doubling the dose to compensate for a missed tablet is contraindicated because of the risk of hypotension and neuro‑behavioural effects.

Overdose
Acute ingestion of more than 30 mg** (approximately 3‑times the maximum recommended daily dose) constitutes an overdose. Immediate actions:

• Contact NHS 111 or local emergency services.
• Do not induce vomiting unless instructed by a clinician.
• Monitor for severe hypotension, altered consciousness, or cardiac arrhythmias.
• Supportive treatment includes intravenous fluids, vasopressor therapy if needed, and observation of cardiac rhythm.

Buying Bromocriptine from Our Online Pharmacy

Bromocriptine can be purchased from our online pharmacy in UK with the following advantages:

• Affordable pricing – generic tablets are offered at near‑manufacturer cost, considerably lower than typical NHS pharmacy retail prices.
• Verified quality – only fully licensed, GMP‑certified suppliers are sourced; each batch is accompanied by validated certificates of analysis.
• Guaranteed delivery – discreet, tracked shipping; express options deliver within 7 working days, standard airmail typically arrives in 3 weeks.
• International access – as a pharmacy‑broker service, we work with overseas licensed pharmacies, enabling patients to obtain medicines that may not be stocked locally while respecting privacy and regulatory standards.

Our platform complies with UK data‑protection legislation and provides a seamless, confidential channel for patients who have limited pharmacy access or who are seeking a reliable generic alternative.

FAQ

• **Is Bromocriptine available in both brand‑name and generic forms in the UK?
  Yes, the medication is sold under the original brand Parlodel and as a generic version manufactured by certified suppliers. The generic tablets contain the identical active ingredient, Bromocriptine, and are generally priced lower than the branded product.

• **What are the visual characteristics of bromocriptine tablets?
  Generic tablets are typically oval‑shaped, film‑coated, and white to off‑white in colour. Imprint markings include the strength (e.g., “2.5 mg”) and the manufacturer’s identification code, which differs from the original brand’s logo.

• **Does bromocriptine require refrigeration?
  No, bromocriptine tablets are stable at room temperature (15 °C – 30 °C) and should be stored away from moisture, direct light, and heat sources. Refrigeration is unnecessary and may affect tablet integrity.

• **Can I travel internationally with bromocriptine in my possession?
  When travelling, keep the medication in its original packaging with the patient information leaflet. Carry a copy of the prescription and, if required by the destination country, a medical certificate confirming the need for the drug.

• **Are there any special storage considerations for high‑temperature climates?
  In hot environments, store the tablets in a cool, dry place such as a sealed container or a locked cabinet away from windows. Prolonged exposure to temperatures above 30 °C may degrade the active compound over time.

• **What warnings apply to patients with cardiovascular disease?
  Bromocriptine can cause orthostatic hypotension and, rarely, valvular heart disease. Patients with uncontrolled hypertension, recent myocardial infarction, or known heart valve pathology should only use the drug under close cardiology supervision.

• **Is bromocriptine detectable in standard drug‑testing panels?
  As a therapeutic agent rather than a substance of abuse, bromocriptine is not included in routine workplace drug‑testing panels. However, specialized toxicology screens can identify its presence if specifically requested.

• **How does bromocriptine differ between European and US formulations?
  The core active ingredient is identical, but some regional formulations vary in excipients, tablet film coating composition, and licensing authority. European tablets generally conform to the EMA guideline on ergot‑derived dopamine agonists, while US versions may contain additional stabilisers.

• **What is the historical significance of bromocriptine in endocrinology?
  First introduced in the 197s, bromocriptine was one of the earliest non‑surgical treatments for prolactin‑secreting tumours, revolutionising fertility management and reducing the need for invasive pituitary surgery. Its dopaminergic mode of action paved the way for subsequent agents such as cabergoline.

• **Can patients with renal impairment use bromocriptine safely?
  Renal dysfunction does not significantly alter bromocriptine pharmacokinetics because hepatic metabolism is the primary pathway. Nevertheless, dose adjustments may be needed in end‑stage renal disease, and clinicians should monitor for hypotensive episodes.

• **Does bromocriptine interact with over‑the‑counter cold remedies?
  Certain decongestants (e.g., pseudoephedrine) can raise blood pressure and counteract bromocriptine‑induced vasodilation, potentially heightening cardiovascular stress. Patients should consult a pharmacist before combining these agents.

• **Is there a need for routine blood‑test monitoring while on bromocriptine?
  Yes, serum prolactin levels are measured after 2–4 weeks of therapy to confirm efficacy, and periodic liver function tests are advisable because hepatic metabolism can be impacted by comorbid conditions or interacting drugs.

• **What are the legal requirements for personal import of bromocriptine into the UK?
  Personal import of medicines for personal use is permitted under the UK Medicines Act when the product is for a legitimate medical need, the patient holds a valid prescription, and the supply originates from a licensed overseas pharmacy. Our online pharmacy ensures compliance with these regulations.

Glossary

Dopamine D₂ receptor

A protein that binds dopamine, primarily modulating hormone release from the pituitary and motor function in the brain.

Hyperprolactinaemia

A condition characterised by abnormally high levels of prolactin in the bloodstream, often causing menstrual disturbance and infertility.

Orthostatic hypotension

A drop in blood pressure upon standing, leading to dizziness or faintness; a common side effect of dopamine agonists.

Pharmacokinetics

The study of how a drug is absorbed, distributed, metabolised, and eliminated by the body.

⚠️ Disclaimer

The information provided about Bromocriptine is for general knowledge only. It does not replace professional medical consultation. All treatment decisions should be made under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider. We assume all readers are responsible adults capable of making informed decisions about their health. Our online pharmacy offers access to Bromocriptine for individuals who may have limited availability through traditional pharmacies, prescription‑based insurance schemes, or who are seeking affordable generic alternatives. Always consult your doctor before starting, changing, or discontinuing any medication.