Cabergoline: Practical guide to what it does, doses, and safety
Cabergoline is a dopamine agonist most often used to lower high prolactin levels. High prolactin can cause irregular periods, trouble getting pregnant, sexual problems, and milk production when not breastfeeding. Doctors prefer cabergoline because it usually works well and doses are easy to take—often just once or twice a week.
What cabergoline is used for
The main use is treating hyperprolactinemia, including prolactin-secreting pituitary tumors (prolactinomas). When prolactin is high, cabergoline helps shrink tumors and restore normal hormone balance. It can fix missed periods, improve fertility, and stop unwanted milk production. Sometimes it’s used off-label for other hormone problems, but you should only use it under a doctor’s advice.
Cabergoline has also been used at much higher doses for Parkinson’s disease in the past, but those doses carried higher risks to the heart. For hormone issues, doses are usually much lower.
Typical dosing and how to take it
Doctors usually start low to limit side effects. A common starting dose is 0.25 mg twice weekly or 0.5 mg once a week, then adjust based on blood tests and symptoms. Maintenance doses commonly fall between 0.5 mg and 1 mg per week, split into one or two doses. Never change the amount or stop suddenly without checking with your doctor.
Take cabergoline exactly as prescribed. Many people take it at bedtime to reduce nausea and dizziness. You can take it with or without food, but keep your schedule consistent so you don’t miss doses.
Regular blood tests are needed to check prolactin and to guide dose changes. If a tumor is present, periodic MRI scans may be used to watch size changes.
Side effects and safety tips
Common side effects are nausea, headache, dizziness, tiredness, and constipation. Dizziness may be worse when you stand up quickly—get up slowly. Less commonly, people experience mood changes such as impulsive behaviors (gambling, shopping) or hallucinations. If you notice new or strong mood shifts, tell your doctor right away.
There’s a specific long-term safety issue: high cumulative doses of cabergoline have been linked to heart valve problems. This risk is mainly seen in people taking much higher doses for Parkinson’s over long periods. Still, doctors may check heart valves by echo if you need long-term or higher-dose therapy or if you develop heart symptoms like shortness of breath or swelling.
Cautions: tell your doctor about heart disease, psychiatric conditions, pregnancy plans, and all other medicines you take. Some drugs—especially medications that block dopamine (certain antipsychotics or anti-nausea drugs)—can reduce cabergoline’s effect.
Buying cabergoline: it generally requires a prescription. Avoid unverified online sellers. Use licensed pharmacies or telemedicine services so you get proper dosing and medical follow-up.
Practical tip: keep a medication calendar, report side effects early, and get blood tests as your doctor asks. That simple routine makes cabergoline safer and more effective.
Understanding Cabergoline: How It Works and What to Expect
Cabergoline is a medication I recently came across, and I thought it would be helpful to share my understanding of how it works and what to expect. It's primarily used to treat high levels of prolactin in the body, which can cause various health issues. The drug works by acting on dopamine receptors, which helps to reduce prolactin levels. Some common side effects include nausea, dizziness, and headache, but most people tolerate the medication well. If you're prescribed cabergoline, it's important to follow your doctor's instructions closely and report any concerning side effects.