Dostinex Dangers

Dostinex is a brand name prescription medication whose active ingredient is the drug cabergoline. Cabergoline is a dopamine receptor agonist used in the treatment of hyperprolactinemia, a condition of uncommonly high prolactin levels in the blood. In women, this condition typically exists during pregnancy or when breastfeeding, however in the absence of pregnancy or breastfeeding, hyperprolactinaemia can inhibit the normal menstrual cycle in women and cause infertility. It can cause erectile dysfunction in men.

Valvulopathy

• Long-term use of high dosages of Dostinex has been associated with reported cases of cardiac valvulopathy. Although most of these cases have been reported in conjunction with the drug's use in treating Parkinson's disease, there have been rare reports of cardiac valvulopathy in patients being treated for hyperprolactinemia. As such, the lowest effective dose of Dostinex should be administered, and treatment should be re-evaluated on a regular basis. Patients with a history of cardiac disease, congestive heart failure or other heart conditions should discuss the dangers and benefits of using Dostinex with their health care provider.

Pregnancy

• Dostinex is not intended for use by patients with pregnancy-induced hypertension. However in certain cases the potential benefits of using the drug may outweigh the potential side effects. Patients should discuss such treatment with their health care provider to ensure they fully understand both the benefits and risks prior to beginning treatment with Dostinex or any other dopamine receptor agonist.

Psychiatric

• In some patients use of Dostinex has been associated with pathological gambling, increased libido and hypersexuality. Any patient being treated with Dostinex or any other dopamine receptor agonist should report any such side effects to his or her health care provider immediately. In most cases these side effects disappear with a reduction in dosage or discontinuation of the use of the drug.

Nursing Mothers

• Although there have been no studies regarding Dostinex's ability to pass from mother to child in human milk, it is recommended that nursing mothers either discontinue use of Dostinex or discontinue breastfeeding. Cabergoline, the active ingredient in Dostinex may have potentially serious adverse reactions in nursing infants.

Geriatric and Pediatric Use

• Insufficient studies have been conducted regarding the use of Dostinex on children and on people over the age of 65. It is recommended that use of this drug by patients in these categories by administered with caution and at the lowest dosage possible.