Cabergoline: what it treats and what to watch for

If your doctor mentioned cabergoline, you probably have questions about how it works, what side effects to expect, and whether buying it online is safe. Cabergoline (brand name Dostinex) is a dopamine agonist most often prescribed to lower high prolactin levels — for example with prolactin-secreting tumors (prolactinomas) or menstrual problems tied to high prolactin. It’s also used sometimes to stop unwanted milk production and, at higher doses, in Parkinson’s disease.

How cabergoline works and how people usually take it

Cabergoline works by activating dopamine receptors (mainly D2), which tells the pituitary gland to cut prolactin production. That reduces symptoms like irregular periods, milk production when not breastfeeding, or effects of a prolactinoma.

Typical starting schedules for hyperprolactinemia are low and spread out (for example, 0.25 mg twice a week). Doctors adjust the dose based on blood tests and symptoms. Higher or more frequent doses are used in Parkinson’s, and those carry different risks. Always follow your prescriber’s plan — don’t increase or stop the drug on your own.

Side effects, key warnings, and practical safety tips

Common side effects are nausea, headache, dizziness (especially when standing), fatigue, and constipation. Because cabergoline can lower blood pressure, get up slowly from sitting or lying down. If you drive or operate machinery when you first start the drug, be careful until you know how it affects you.

Less common but important risks: at high cumulative doses, ergot-derived dopamine agonists have been linked to heart valve changes. This risk is mainly a concern with long-term, high-dose use (as in Parkinson’s). For lower doses used to treat prolactin issues, doctors usually judge the benefit versus risk and may monitor heart function if needed.

Cabergoline is not for breastfeeding — it suppresses milk. Tell your doctor if you’re pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding. Also mention any existing heart problems, psychiatric conditions, or if you’re taking antipsychotics or strong dopamine blockers (they can cancel cabergoline’s effect).

Call your clinician right away for severe chest pain, unexplained shortness of breath, fainting, or new psychiatric symptoms like hallucinations.

Thinking of buying cabergoline online? Safety first: choose pharmacies that require a prescription, show a licensed pharmacist contact, and have clear return and privacy policies. Check packaging and expiry dates when you receive meds. Avoid sites that sell large quantities without a prescription or offer unrealistic prices — those are red flags.

Want to learn more about dosing, interactions, or whether cabergoline fits your situation? Talk to your prescriber or a pharmacist and keep copies of your blood test results handy. Accurate monitoring and honest communication with your healthcare team make the treatment safer and more effective.