This drug still remains the most widely prescribed for breast discharge against all side effects

Emobileclinic Trending Topic: Bromocriptine

Excessive secretion of breast milk or discharge in a non- breastfeeding woman is an indication for serious concern because of its attendant effect on fertility. Put differently, when the prolactin level is high or low in a woman of reproductive age, the chances of her becoming pregnant becomes difficult if not impossible. One drug that is effective in managing this condition is bromocriptine.

Bromocriptine is a fertility drug that helps to conceive if the woman is experiencing problems with ovulation. It is used to correct a hormonal imbalance that can prevent the ovaries from releasing an egg every month.

It is estimated that close to 50 per cent of women who use the drug will ovulate and almost all are expected to conceive.

Predisposing condition for using the drug?

People with high level of prolactin in their body system are highly recommended to use the drug. Prolactin is known to reduce levels of the hormone oestrogen. This, in turn, causes problems with ovulation, making it difficult to get pregnant.

Prolactin is produced in your brain by the pituitary gland. When there is too much prolactin in your body it is called hyperprolactinemia. 

Causes of hyperprolactinemia are: 

Harmless (benign) tumours on the pituitary gland

Non-secreting tumours on the pituitary gland

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

Hypothyroidism

Head injury

How does bromocriptine work?

The drug acts on the pituitary gland, reducing the production of prolactin. It is used as a fertility treatment. For this reason, bromocriptine may be your doctor’s first choice of drug for safety reasons.

Duration of using bromocriptine 

The drug is to be taken two to three times daily. The moment the prolactin levels are within a normal range, menstruation will begin and ovulation will definitely follow. In the absence of any other fertility problems, you should be able to conceive naturally without the aid of any assisted reproduction technology.

Bromocriptine is considered safe for long term usage. However, as soon as your pregnancy is confirmed, your doctor will advise you to stop your treatment.

Side Effects

Nausea

Constipation

Headache

Dry mouth

Nasal stuffiness

Dizziness

Low blood pressure

Drowsiness