Parlodel

Parlodel is a prescription medicine licensed for the treatment of acromegaly, parkinsonism, and hyperprolactinemia. It works for these conditions by binding to and stimulating dopamine receptors and by decreasing prolactin and growth hormone production by the pituitary gland. Parlodel comes in tablet and capsule form, and is available in both brand-name and generic versions. Potential side effects of the medication include headache, constipation, and nausea.

 

What Is Parlodel?

Parlodel® (bromocriptine mesylate) is a prescription medication approved for treating the following conditions:
 
  • Hyperprolactinemia (high levels of the hormone prolactin)
  • Parkinson's disease and other similar conditions (when used in combination with other medications)
  • Acromegaly (a hormonal growth disorder).
     
(Click Parlodel Uses for more information, including possible off-label uses.)
 

Who Makes Parlodel?

Brand-name Parlodel is made by Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation. Generic Parlodel is made by a few different manufacturers (see Generic Parlodel for more information).
 

How Does Parlodel Work?

Parlodel belongs to a group of medications known as ergot alkaloids. It works as a dopamine receptor agonist, which means that it binds to and stimulates dopamine receptors. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter (a chemical that transmits signals between nerves). Because the symptoms of Parkinson's disease are caused by low dopamine levels in the brain, Parlodel can help alleviate Parkinson's symptoms by acting like dopamine.
 
Acromegaly is caused by high levels of growth hormone. Parlodel works for acromegaly by decreasing growth hormone production by the pituitary gland.
 
Parlodel works for hyperprolactinemia by decreasing prolactin production by the pituitary gland.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;