Cabergoline 0.5 mg

What is Cabergoline 0.5 mg?

Cabergoline 0.5 mg is a dopamine receptor agonist used to treat disorders related to excess prolactin, known as hyperprolactinemia. It mimics the action of dopamine—a natural neurotransmitter that suppresses prolactin secretion from the pituitary gland. Cabergoline is available under several brand names such as Cabgolin, Dostinex, and others.

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What are the Uses of Cabergoline 0.5 mg?

• Treatment of hyperprolactinemia

• Management of pituitary prolactinomas (prolactin-secreting tumors)

• Restoration of ovulation in women with infertility

• Reduction of galactorrhea (unexpected milk production)

• Stopping lactation (in selected cases)

• Off-label use in Parkinson’s disease (usually at higher doses)

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What are the Benefits of Cabergoline 0.5 mg?

• Lowers elevated prolactin levels efficiently

• Restores normal menstrual cycles and ovulation

• Enhances fertility in women with prolactin-related issues

• Treats sexual dysfunction and infertility in men with high prolactin

• Helps reduce or stabilize the size of pituitary tumors

• Convenient once or twice-weekly dosing

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How Does Cabergoline 0.5 mg Work?

Cabergoline stimulates dopamine D2 receptors in the brain, specifically in the anterior pituitary gland. This inhibits prolactin secretion, leading to a normalization of prolactin levels in the blood. The effect is dose-dependent and usually sustained over several days due to the drug’s long half-life.

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How to Take Cabergoline 0.5 mg?

• Take as prescribed, typically once or twice a week

• Swallow the tablet whole with water

• Can be taken with or without food

• Try to take it at the same time each week for consistency

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Dosage of Cabergoline 0.5 mg

• Starting dose: Usually 0.25 mg twice a week

• Can be titrated up based on prolactin levels and clinical response

• Maintenance dose: Often 0.5 mg to 1 mg per week, may go up to 2 mg/week

• Your doctor may adjust the dose based on lab test results

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Missed Dose and Overdose

Missed Dose:

• Take it as soon as you remember

• If it’s close to the next scheduled dose, skip the missed one

• Do not double up on doses

Overdose Symptoms:

• Nausea and vomiting

• Hallucinations or confusion

• Low blood pressure

• Fainting

• Seek immediate medical attention

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What Are the Available Strengths of Cabergoline?

• 0.25 mg tablets

• 0.5 mg tablets (most common therapeutic dose)

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Side Effects of Cabergoline 0.5 mg

Common Side Effects:

• Nausea or vomiting

• Headache

• Dizziness

• Fatigue or weakness

• Constipation

Less Common but Serious Side Effects:

• Hallucinations or mood changes

• Impulse control disorders (gambling, shopping, etc.)

• Chest pain, shortness of breath

• Heart valve abnormalities (rare—may need echocardiogram)

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Drug Interactions

• Antipsychotics (e.g., risperidone, haloperidol) may reduce cabergoline’s effectiveness

• Macrolide antibiotics (e.g., erythromycin) may increase blood levels of cabergoline

• Blood pressure medications can cause additive hypotension

• Avoid alcohol and sedatives—may worsen side effects

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Precautions of Cabergoline 0.5 mg

• Avoid in pregnancy unless absolutely necessary

• Do not breastfeed while on this medication

• Use cautiously if you have liver problems, heart valve disease, or a psychiatric history

• Regular monitoring of prolactin levels and possibly cardiac function (echocardiogram) may be required

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Storage Information

• Store at 15–30°C

• Keep away from heat, moisture, and light

• Keep the medication in its original packaging

• Keep out of reach of children

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Availability in the US and Australia

• Available in the United States as generic Cabergoline and under brand name Dostinex

• Available in Australia as generic or under different brand names

• Prescription is required in both countries

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How fast does Cabergoline 0.5 mg work?

It may begin lowering prolactin levels within a few days, but symptom relief can take weeks to months.

2. Is Cabergoline used for fertility treatment?

Yes. By lowering prolactin, it helps restore ovulation and increase chances of pregnancy.

3. Can Cabergoline be taken long-term?

Yes, but long-term use should be monitored by a healthcare provider to assess heart function and prolactin levels.

4. Is it safe to stop Cabergoline suddenly?

No. Stopping suddenly can cause a rebound rise in prolactin. Always consult your doctor.

5. Can men take Cabergoline 0.5 mg?

Yes. It is used in men to treat prolactinomas, low testosterone, and erectile dysfunction due to high prolactin.