Cabergoline: What It Does and What You Should Know

Cabergoline is a dopamine agonist that often works fast to lower high prolactin levels and shrink small pituitary tumors. If your period stopped, you’re having unexplained nipple discharge, or your doctor found a prolactinoma, cabergoline is one of the most commonly used medicines. It can restore fertility and regular cycles for many people within weeks to months.

How cabergoline is used and how to take it

For hyperprolactinemia (high prolactin), doctors usually start low — 0.25 mg twice a week or 0.5 mg once weekly — then adjust based on symptoms and blood tests. Some people need 1–2 mg per week. Take it exactly on the days your doctor tells you; many people prefer taking it in the evening. It can be taken with or without food. Never change the dose or stop suddenly without talking to your prescriber.

Higher daily doses have been used for Parkinson’s disease in the past, but that requires different monitoring and carries higher risk of heart valve problems. That’s why your doctor prescribes the lowest effective dose for prolactin issues.

Side effects and safety tips

Common side effects are nausea, dizziness, headache, and tiredness. These often improve after a few doses. Because cabergoline can lower blood pressure, stand up slowly and avoid driving or heavy machinery until you know how it affects you. Some people develop mood changes or impulse control issues (like compulsive gambling or shopping); tell your doctor if your mood shifts or you notice new risky behaviors.

At high doses and with long-term use, cabergoline has been linked to heart valve changes. For standard doses used to treat prolactin problems, the risk is much lower, but your doctor may still check your heart if you need long-term therapy. If you have a history of heart valve disease, uncontrolled blood pressure, or severe liver problems, mention that before starting.

Cabergoline can interact with other drugs. Avoid combining it with other strong dopamine agonists or ergot medicines unless your doctor approves. Also tell your provider about antidepressants, antibiotics, and heart medicines — some combinations can raise side-effect risks. If you’re pregnant or trying to conceive, discuss the plan: many people stop cabergoline after pregnancy is confirmed, but only your doctor can advise based on your situation.

Monitoring is simple: your doctor will check prolactin levels and symptoms after a few weeks and again later. If levels normalize and symptoms resolve, some people can reduce or stop treatment under medical supervision. If you buy cabergoline online, use a reputable pharmacy and always keep a current prescription.

Have questions about your dose, side effects, or how long you’ll need treatment? Ask your prescriber or pharmacist — they can tailor advice to your health history and make a safe plan you feel comfortable with.