Cabgolin 0.25 mg (Cabergoline)

What is Cabgolin 0.25 mg?

Cabgolin 0.25 mg is a prescription medication that contains cabergoline, a dopamine agonist. It is primarily used to treat hyperprolactinemia (elevated levels of the hormone prolactin in the blood). Cabgolin is manufactured by Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd.

---

What are the Uses of Cabgolin 0.25 mg?

• Treatment of hyperprolactinemia

• Management of pituitary prolactinomas (prolactin-secreting tumors)

• Restoration of normal ovulation and menstrual cycles

• Treatment of infertility related to high prolactin levels

• In some cases, used to suppress lactation

• May be used off-label for Parkinson’s disease

---

What are the Benefits of Cabgolin 0.25 mg?

• Reduces prolactin levels effectively

• Helps restore normal reproductive function

• Improves symptoms such as irregular periods, milk discharge, and sexual dysfunction

• May reduce tumor size in prolactinomas

• Requires only once or twice-weekly dosing, enhancing compliance

---

How Does Cabgolin 0.25 mg Work?

Cabgolin acts as a dopamine D2 receptor agonist. Dopamine naturally inhibits prolactin production in the brain. Cabgolin mimics dopamine, binds to the receptors in the anterior pituitary gland, and suppresses the secretion of prolactin, thereby lowering its levels in the blood.

---

How to Take Cabgolin 0.25 mg?

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor.

• Usually taken once or twice a week.

• Can be taken with or without food.

• Swallow the tablet whole with water.

• Take it at the same time on each dosing day.

---

Dosage of Cabgolin 0.25 mg

• Initial dose: 0.25 mg twice a week.

• Titration: The dose may be adjusted every 4 weeks based on prolactin levels.

• Maintenance dose: Typically 0.25–1.0 mg/week, divided into 1 or 2 doses.

• Do not self-adjust the dose. Follow your doctor’s instructions.

---

Missed Dose and Overdose

Missed Dose:

• Take the missed dose as soon as you remember.

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

• Do not double dose to make up for a missed dose.

Overdose:
Symptoms may include:

• Nausea and vomiting

• Low blood pressure

• Hallucinations or confusion

• Drowsiness
  Seek emergency medical help immediately if overdose is suspected.

---

What are the Available Strengths of Cabgolin?

• Cabgolin 0.25 mg

• Cabgolin 0.5 mg

---

Side Effects of Cabgolin 0.25 mg

Common Side Effects:

• Nausea or stomach discomfort

• Dizziness or lightheadedness

• Headache

• Tiredness

• Constipation

Serious Side Effects (seek medical help):

• Sudden changes in behavior (e.g., compulsive gambling, shopping, or eating)

• Hallucinations or psychosis

• Shortness of breath, chest pain

• Swelling of hands or feet

• Heart valve problems (rare—may require regular heart monitoring)

---

Interactions of Cabgolin 0.25 mg

• Antipsychotics (e.g., risperidone, haloperidol) – may reduce its effect

• Erythromycin and other macrolide antibiotics – may increase cabergoline levels

• Blood pressure-lowering medications – risk of hypotension

• Ergot derivatives – avoid due to risk of additive effects

Avoid alcohol and CNS depressants while taking this medication.

---

Precautions of Cabgolin 0.25 mg

• Do not use if pregnant or planning pregnancy without doctor’s advice

• Not recommended while breastfeeding

• Inform your doctor if you have heart valve disease, liver dysfunction, or psychiatric illness

• May impair ability to drive or operate machinery due to dizziness

• Regular prolactin tests and echocardiograms may be advised during treatment

---

Storage Information

• Store at 15°C to 30°C

• Protect from light, heat, and moisture

• Keep away from children

---

Availability in the US and Australia

• Cabgolin (brand) is not commonly available in the US/Australia.

• Generic cabergoline is available and approved by the FDA (US) and TGA (Australia)

• Prescription-only medication in both countries

---

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is Cabgolin 0.25 mg safe for long-term use?

Yes, if prescribed and monitored by your doctor, long-term use is generally safe with periodic checkups.

2. Can men take Cabgolin 0.25 mg?

Yes. It is used in men with high prolactin levels, which can cause sexual dysfunction or infertility.

3. How long does it take to see results?

Prolactin levels often begin to decrease within a few days to weeks, but clinical improvement may take longer.

4. Can it be stopped suddenly?

No. Discontinuation should be gradual and under medical supervision.

5. Will it help with fertility?

Yes. By reducing prolactin levels, it may help restore ovulation and fertility in women.